Question from left field about knee braces.

[UltimateSkinsFan]

I don't really know much about how sturdy or how flexible these new high-tech knee braces are and maybe this is a stupid question, but after seeing the one that McNabb will be wearing in Philly the rest of the year, I'm inclined to believe that they are BOTH flexible and sturdy.

With that in mind, 2 Questions:

1.) Does anyone know exactally how sturdy and flexible they are?

2.) If they ARE both, then why don't they make them standard football equipment for all players, if not at the very least the quarterbacks?

I would think that if they are both sturdy and flexible enough, I couldn't imagine how many injurys a year that could be averted. Not to mention possible season or even career ending injuries. Seems to me that at least 50% of injuries in the NFL have to do with the knee.

Thoughts?

:dallasuck :eaglesuck :gaintsuck

Justin

aka UltimateSkinsFan

(Proud son of a WWII ETO Vet - Member: Greatest Generation)

[terpfan]

Do they actually avert injuries though? I thought they just keep you from re-aggravating an existing problem.

Not to mention I'm sure they do limit your mobility at least some.

[SkinsFTW]

Thoughts?

What does this have to do with the Skins? :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

[Titaw]

I can answer these as I have to wear a knee brace when I play ANY sport.

To answer your questions:

1) Braces are extremely sturdy especially the ones that the players are issued. The are very flexible as far as the actual bend goes, BUT the knee is supposed to be able to have give in EVERY direction. A brace prohibits that give.

2) Braces are good for players with previous injuries, but they would actually hurt players that have no prior injury to that knee. Also, there would be more severe injuries if all players wore braces, i.e. more broken bones. Something is going to give when a 300+ lb. lineman falls on a leg, Joey T injuries would be more prevalent.

[LoudMouth12thMan]

Your range of motion isn't the same with one on. Obviously if you've got a bulky metal brace on one of your legs it's a bit cumbersome for someone who likes to run around out of the pocket. I guess it depends on what type of brace it is. Are we talking about a Breg or an Ace...know what I mean? I would think for linemen it would be ideal but not for skill players who have to move around quickly. I guess all in all if Campbell wore one or one of our Backs it would probably slow them down and limit their range of motion so that's why they don't wear them unless instructed to do so. I'm not a team doctor...but I know one and I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night :2cents:

HTTR