almost 3 years ago

Think of a patellar tendon strap like a Band-Aid: It’s useful to address the occasional pain but not something that should be part of your daily workout gear for the overall maintenance of your knee joints.

Reliance on a strap to minimize pain during activities may be a sign that there are “mechanical issues” to address. A doctor or physical therapist can help identify and resolve underlying causes such as:

Ill-fitting shoes. An off-kilter gait. Overly tight leg muscles. A strap also shouldn’t be viewed as a cure for injuries such as patellar tendonitis.

“If you’re hurting every time you do an activity, the answer isn’t to just wear a strap or brace. You need to see someone to find out the cause,” advises Dr. King.

Who could benefit from a patellar tendon strap? If you’re an active person with an occasionally achy knee, a patellar tendon band might be worth buying. Athletes in sports where jumping is a prominent skill – think basketball and volleyball – are prime candidates.

A patella knee strap can help those who keep their feet closer to Earth, too, including runners, walkers and dancers.

You can find the straps at sport goods stores or online, with many options costing less than $20. Using a strap on just one troublesome knee is fine, too, says Dr. King. It’s not necessary to brace both knees at once.