Knee Band Straps

Written By: Chloe Wilson, BSc(Hons) Physiotherapy
Reviewed by: KPE Medical Review Board

Patellar knee band straps can be really useful for a number of different knee problems. 

They are often referred to as Jumpers Knee Straps or Patellar Straps and are simple, but extremely effective.

Knee bands are designed to put pressure through the patella tendon and support the kneecap, therefore improving patellar tracking (kneecap movement). This helps reduce the forces going through the kneecap and patella tendon. 

The KneedIt XM magnetic knee band strap contains two strategically placed magnets and is designed to relieve minor knee pain, soreness, stiffness and inflammation, and improve patellar tracking.

It claims to be particularly effective with arthritis, tendonitis and chondromalacia. 

Magnet therapy claims to help by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, promoting general well-being and relaxation all of which help to reduce pain. This magnetic strap was developed by a world renowned Orthopedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine Specialist. 

Our Verdict: Whether you are a fan of magnet therapy or not, the KneedIt XM Magnetic Brace receives great reviews so is worth looking at. I like the way it is shaped to support the kneecap. Average user rating 4.2/5

The Mueller Jumpers Knee Strap is a classic. Mueller have been making knee braces for over 100 years and this product is a classic.

A tubular insert provides uniform pressure for pain relief.

It is available in a range of colours: red, royal blue, green, black, gold/yellow, orange, pink, so there's one for everyone! 

The Neo G patella knee band features a silicon pad, designed to be worn directly below the kneecap, over the patellar tendon. This helps to provide greater targeted compression and support.

It also has plastic loops for tightening the band which makes it easier to apply and ensure a good fit than with other straps.

Our Verdict: We really like the design of this strap with the loops rather than just being a strip that you wrap around - easier to get a good fit. Average user rating 4.3/5.

The McDavid Jumpers Knee Strap has a unique tubular buttress which applies constant, mild compression on the patellar tendon. It is perfect for people who do lots of running and/or jumping.

The McDavid patellar knee band strap has fully adjustable Velcro for the perfect fit – one size fits all.

Our Verdict: The foam cushion helps this strap stay in place therefore providing consistent support. It’s a bit more expensive than other makes but generally receives slightly better reviews from patients. Average user rating 4.3/5.

The ACE Knee Strap is the only knee band on the market that doesn't just wrap around the knee, it  is dual adjustable.

There are two slightly different designs available, one has a small side side tab that can be pulled, the other a small dial to turn to tighten the strap once the velcro has been fastened.

Our Verdict: The ACE knee strap has the added advantage of being dual-adjustable which helps to ensure a good fit, but it isn't always in stock unfortunately. Average user rating 4.2/5.

The Cho-Pat dual knee strap provides support above and below the knee, dispersing pain and providing immediate relief. Specially designed to ensure constant dynamic support to reduce pain and problems associated with overuse.

The top strap reduces the force through the quads and reduces the potential for misalignment. The bottom strap helps stabilize the kneecap and improve patellar tracking to prevent wear and tear on the back of the kneecap. Available in black or tan and a range of sizes to ensure perfect fit and maximum performance.    

The Mueller Max Knee Strap is lightweight, comfortable double knee band provides targeted compression without reducing mobility. It has 3 compression tubes:

• Lower targets the patellar tendon
• Upper targets quadriceps malalignment
• 2 side tubes help improve patellar position, movement and tracking. These all decrease the forces going through the knee cap and friction on the Iliotibial band (ITB) and patella tendons.

This McDavid Multi Action Knee Strap is a dual knee band with two adjustable buttresses.

These can be placed top and bottom to reduce the forces going through the kneecap and patellar tendon, or at the sides to help prevent patellar subluxation. The two adjustable straps provide optimum fit and comfort.

The McDavid Multi Action Strap is made of neoprene and is available in two sizes S/M and L/XL