The History Of Knee Braces
A knee brace is a device used to support the knee joint and give it protection from injuries. The three main types of knee braces are the preventative, rehabilitative, and palliative braces.
Knee braces have been used for centuries to protect the knee joint and provide support. The first known knee brace was worn by the Egyptian king Tutankhamun, who ruled from 1332-1323 BC. The brace was found in his tomb, next to his mummy. The ancient Egyptians also used knee braces made of wood and leather to stabilize fractures and relieve pain.
The first recorded use of a knee brace in the United States was in 1718, when a man named John Fenton injured his knee while working on a ship. Fenton was fitted with a leather knee brace and was able to return to work.
In the early 1800s, knee braces were commonly used to treat a condition called knee-buckling, which was a common cause of disability at that time. In 1854, the first metal knee brace was patented by a man named James Wardrop. Wardrop's brace was made of a lightweight metal and was designed to be worn under the clothing.
The first knee brace for athletes was designed in 1874 by a man named George E. Parkhurst. Parkhurst's brace was made of leather and was intended to protect the knee from further injury.
In the early 1900s, knee braces were commonly used to treat a variety of injuries and diseases, including arthritis, gout, and tuberculosis. In the 1950s, knee braces were developed for use inorthopedic surgery.
In the 1960s, knee braces were introduced for use in sports. The first sports knee brace was developed by a man named Robert Goldman. Goldman's brace was made of nylon and was designed to be worn over the clothing.
In the 1970s, knee braces were developed for use in more strenuous activities, such as running and jumping. The first braces of this type were developed by a man named Robert Butler. Butler's braces were made of neoprene and were intended to be worn over the clothing.
Knee braces are now available in a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and composite. They are also available in a variety of sizes and shapes. Knee braces are worn for a variety of reasons, including to prevent injuries, to treat injuries, and to relieve pain.