Climbers: Watch Your Knees!
Did you know?
Knee injuries in bouldering often result from dynamic movements and awkward landings, with strains and sprains being common occurrences.
Knee injuries in rock climbing, typically caused by falls, are generally less severe than ankle injuries but can still result in significant pain and impairment. Knowing how to address such injuries is crucial. These injuries encompass twisted knees and torn ligaments, frequently occurring from incorrect landing post-falls, repetitive stress from falling during bouldering sessions, abnormal forces exerted on the knees from certain climbing positions especially if climbers do not have sufficient hip flexibility (eg, edging on small holds with hips open and heels raised, drop knees etc.)
The most prevalent rock climbing injury is a twisted knee, often stemming from falling onto the knees while climbing. Though less severe than torn ligaments, twisted knees can still be highly uncomfortable and challenging to manage.
Symptoms of a twisted knee involve swelling, pain in the knee joint, and leg pain. In case of these symptoms, applying ice to the injured knee multiple times daily for short durations and using a bandage for support is recommended. Consulting a doctor for further guidance is advised.
Which leads to the question, should you take extra measures to protect and prevent injury or if you are currently or previously injured, what should you do?
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If you:
• Have a history or existing knee injury
• Weak knees from a medical condition
• Are looking for additional support or protection
• Are after proprioceptive* feedback on your knee movement
Then a knee sleeve might be helpful for you.
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Knee sleeves offer a compression level that
• enhances blood circulation to your knee joints,
• thereby diminishing discomfort, pain and inflammation while engaging in climbing activities or regular walking.
• provide protection for your knees and support for your leg tendons during long climbs, and they can help prevent injuries from taking place during falling.
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• Comfortable
• Durable
• Breathable materials and fabric to avoid chafing and prevent rash-causing bacteria from growing on the brace as you wear it)
• Sleek design (who said you needed to sacrifice fashion for functionality?)
• Good fit to provide compression at areas most needed/desired
Aptus Knee Sleeve have a sleek design, made with our breathable moisture wicking 4 way stretch fabric that delivers compression during sport without impacting your flexibility to move around.
If you’re after something for recovery that holds your knee structure intact, then the Aptus Knee Brace would better for rehabilitation, preparing you back for sport. In addition to the features of the Aptus Knee Sleeve, It has supportive patella gel padding and side stabilising structures to hold your joints in place to improve healing.
Disclaimer: Although the use of sports braces can assist you in your sporting performance, a well-tailored exercise program is important to address your underlying conditions. You should seek professional advice from your medical doctor.