What kind of knee brace may be used for individuals who feel they need extra medial or lateral support?

The correct answer is a functional brace. This type of knee brace is specifically designed to provide support and stability to the knee during athletic activities, particularly for individuals who have experienced ligament injuries or who feel they need additional medial or lateral support. Functional braces help to control the movement of the knee in a way that limits instability, offering protection during weight-bearing and dynamic activities.

While the other types of braces, such as protective or rehab braces, serve specific functions for limiting injury or assisting recovery, they do not specifically enhance the active stability and support needed during performance. A neoprene brace primarily provides warmth and compression but does not offer the structured support that a functional brace does. Understanding the specific needs of the athlete is crucial when choosing the right type of brace, and functional braces are designed with those needs for activity in mind.