Which type of knee brace is designed to be used rehabilitatively following surgical repair to allow controlled progressive immobilization?

• A. Protective knee brace
• B. Rehabilitation brace
• C. Functional brace
• D. Neoprene sleeve

Answer: (B)

After knee surgery, protecting the repair while gradually restoring motion is essential. A rehabilitation brace is built for this stage: it uses adjustable hinges and ROM stops to immobilize or limit movement initially, then progressively allow more bending as healing progresses. This controlled progression helps protect ligaments or tissue repairs while reducing stiffness and promoting safe recovery. In contrast, a protective knee brace mainly shields the knee from further injury without a built‑in plan to advance range of motion, a functional brace is used to provide stability during activity once healing is well underway, and a neoprene sleeve offers compression and warmth with little to no immobilization.