Written By: Chloe Wilson, BSc(Hons) Physiotherapy
Reviewed by: KPE Medical Review Board
A magnetic knee brace is a specially designed knee support that contains magnets strategically placed to surround the knee joint region to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Magnetic therapy has been used for hundreds of years as a drug-free, non-invasive treatment for pain and swelling.
There are differing opinions about the effectiveness of magnets, but many people find them extremely beneficial, especially for conditions like arthritis.
Magnetic knee braces combine the support and warmth of a knee brace with the effects of magnetic therapy.
Here we will look at how they work, look at some of the most popular magnetic knee braces out there and the safety issues when using magnetic therapy.
Magnetic knee braces can be really helpful for people suffering from knee pain and stiffness particularly with conditions such as arthritis.
Magnetic knee braces supposedly work in a combination of ways, claiming to:
Magnetic fields are believed to attract and repel charged particles in the blood creating movement and heat. This would cause blood vessels to widen which accelerates healing by bringing in fresh oxygen and nutrients and removing toxins.
This increase in blood flow could all help to reduce knee inflammation and stiffness as well as knee pain.
Magnetic fields are also thought to trigger the nervous system which reduces the pain signals sent to the brain, thereby reducing the amount of pain felt.
Magnetic therapy also reportedly benefits the whole body by improving sleep quality and activity levels as well as reducing stress.
Many people report significant benefits from magnetic therapy, however medical opinion is divided and at present, there is a lack of scientific data to validate the efficacy of magnets. The physical and biological claims made are currently unproven and no effects on health or healing have been fully established. But that doesn't mean they won't work for you.
Let's have a look at some of the most popular magnetic knee brace options on the market, how they work and how they might help you. You can also read user reviews to find out more.
Overview: The MagnetRX Knee Support has 17 powerful neodymium magnets strategically positions in acupressure points all around the knee for maximum results.
This magnetic knee brace is made using 3d knit technology to provide superior support and comfort without compromising knee mobility. Made of soft elastic and breathable fabric it has anti-slip silicone strips to keep the sleeve in place.
They are sold in packs of 2 and are available in 4 different sizes, and they come with a full 60-day money back guarantee.
Our Verdict: The Magnet RX Knee Support receives excellent user reviews with people reporting immediate benefits. We like how the magnets are evenly spaced around the front and back of the knee so they work, whichever part of your knee is painful. Average user rating 4.4/5
Read: User Reviews Buy Now: ON SALE (guide price $35/£34/€38)
Overview: Magnetic Knee Straps are a great tool for reducing knee pain, particularly around the kneecap and in the tendons around the knee.
Knee straps put pressure through the patellar tendon and support the kneecap, improving the smooth, naturally gliding movement of the patella whilst reducing the pressure through the bones. They are particularly good with conditions such as tendonitis, patellar tracking problems and general anterior knee pain.
Knee straps which incorporate magnets also have the added advantage of all the benefits of magnetic therapy. There are a few different versions on the market depending on what country you live in.
Our Verdict: Magnetic Knee Straps can be really useful for reducing front knee pain and patellar tracking. People often can't believe how much difference they can make. Average user rating 4.1/5
Read: User Reviews Buy Now: ON SALE (guide price $35/£34/€38)
Overview: The For-Knees Magnetic Knee Brace contains 13 super magnets strategically placed over acupuncture points. It is made of strong, breathable material containing tourmaline fibers which reflect back your body's warmth to help relieve pain, spasms and stiffness.
It is made of natural elastic cotton and the area over the kneecap has a special weave for flexibility. There is a reinforced band at the top and bottom with interior silicon that helps the sleeve to stay in place.
It comes in four different sizes to ensure a good fit but is only available in some countries.
Our Verdict: The For-Knees Magnetic Knee Brace provides good support and compression and receives great user reviews. Some people find the fit a bit tight so it may be worth ordering a size up. Average user rating 4.3/5.
Read: User Reviews Buy Now: ON SALE (guide price $27/£20/€24)
Overview: Copper Knee Braces work in a similar way to magnetic knee braces. Not only do the offer support and compression to the knee, but the copper helps to improve blood circulation and absorbs moisture, keeping the knee arm and reducing knee stiffness and pain.
Copper ion fibres are weaved into the knee sleeve so surround the entire joint. Comes in a pack of two.
Our Verdict: Copper Knee Braces receive excellent user reviews for a whole range of knee conditions. You get all the support of a good knee sleeve but can also benefit from the infused copper too! Average user rating 4.4/5
Read: User Reviews Buy Now: ON SALE (guide price $17/£17/€17)
If you are not that fussed about the magnets, take a look at the Knee Brace Guide to find out about a huge range of knee braces that get great customer reviews for all kinds of knee pain offering everything from basic pull up sleeves to elite sports knee braces.
Magnetic knee braces are NOT SUITABLE for people who:
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Page Last Updated: 16/01/24
Next Review Due: 16/01/26
*Prices correct as of June 2024. All prices are subject to change. Please note we do not stock products directly and therefore have no control over price changes. See advertising policy for more information.