[u]Knee straps for running[/u]are designed to compress the tendons surrounding the knee. The idea is that the stress any particular tendon assumes while contracting can be decreased because the knee strap helps redistribute the tension. There is also some evidence that knee straps can be used to keep tendons properly aligned. Knee straps can be worn above or below the knee, depending on the knee injuries plaguing the runner.
When to Use a Knee Strap Knee straps are commonly used to alleviate the pain and swelling associated with patellar tendonitis, patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee), and IT band syndrome. These injuries generally result from overuse, but can also be caused by increasing the distance or intensity of training runs, changing running surfaces, or running in shoes that are not sufficiently supportive. All of these injuries involve inflamed tendons, so the use of a knee strap to compress the irritated tendons can be beneficial.
