IMBRACE
as your base-layer
Targeted Support for your knees and hips
IMBRACE as your base-layer
There’s good snow. And you’re dreaming of epic days back on the slopes. The last thing you want to worry about is an old niggling injury or picking up a new one.
Unfortunately, winter sport injuries are common. Just one awkward turn, a caught edge or an innocent looking fall will turn a powder hound into a couch potato.
And while some ski injuries can be avoided by limiting non-variable risk factors, such as your gear, fitness level and skiing/boarding within your limits, some factors are completely out of your control. There are hazards every time you step into your skis or on to your board.
The most common knee injuries;
ACL & MCL Tears
Out of the list of winter sport injuries, ACL and MCL tears are the top contenders. While ACL tears and MCL tears differ in terms of severity and recovery, both injuries leave the knee unstable.
What is an ACL?
The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and the PCL (posterior cruciate ligament) cross to form a stabilising “X” inside the knee joint. The ACL stretches diagonally in the middle of the knee, providing rotational stability and helping control back and forth movement.
Causes, Signs and Symptoms of an ACL Tear
One of the most common ski injuries, an ACL tear can be caused by stopping suddenly, quickly changing direction, landing a jump awkwardly or from a collision with a tree, lift tower or another skier.
The tell-tale sign of an ACL tear is an audible pop followed by painful swelling. While most people are able to walk with a torn ACL, there will be discomfort as well as a loss of full range of motion and tenderness in the joint.
What is an MCL?
The MCL (medial collateral ligament) connects your femur (thighbone) to your tibia (shinbone). Along with the LCL, or lateral collateral ligament, that connects the femur to the fibula (the smaller bone in the lower leg), the MCL helps control the sideways movement of the knee. In short, the MCL and LCL help stabilize your knee.
Causes, Signs and Symptoms of an MCL Tear
MCL tears are usually caused by a direct impact to the outside of the knee that pushes the knee inward.
While an MCL tear will not cause a “pop” like an ACL tear, an MCL injury will cause pain on the inside of the knee and considerable swelling. MCL tears cause noticeable knee instability and can feel like the knee is going to give way.
How can IMBRACE help?
• The built in neoprene knee braces help protect your knees by supporting them and keeping them warm.
• The panels that that run up the thighs support your IT Bands and help to reduce tightness in your hips giving improved hip rotation for better turns.
• The panel across the lower back – keeps muscles warm, and helps with your alignment and posture.
• Reduces fatigue, stiffness and swelling.
• Helps recovery after a long day on the slopes – so you can ski from the first lift to the last every day of your holiday.
• Wear IMBRACE as your base layer under bigger braces to reduce chafing and discomfort
How does IMBRACE protect you?
IMBRACE Dynamic targeted compression leggings offer higher levels of support and protection than standard compression leggings or tights to combat sore and unstable knees.
No other legging provides higher levels of user protection via integrated neoprene knee braces.
Advanced fabric technology combines three layers to create the best compression and support leggings available.
The antibacterial base layer is sweat wicking and soft next to your skin.
The middle layer is a 2mm perforated high-grade neoprene that provides the targeted pressure and joint protection. The outer layer is a compression mesh that allows the protective panels to stretch and breath without losing shape or compression.
Support and Protect your joints with IMBRACE!
Compression leggings and support tights are backed by extensive research and testing. They are often prescribed by GPs and are recognised by athletes and physicians to reduce pain, improve performance, and aid recovery.
