Introduction. This study aimed to determine whether the application of local passive knee surface heating combined with the use of orthopaedic support helps improving static and dynamic balance among young male athletes. Methods. To heat the subjects surface area of the knee, we used a custom-made knee cap with an installed (spirally) silicone tube system connected to a circulator which was kept for 10 minutes. Neoprene knee braces made from a sock-like elastic material that provides

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... and warmth to the targeted area to improve functional performance were used in three different sizes: small, medium and large. Lower Quadrant Y-Balance Test (YBT) was performed by each subject to measure dynamic balance and Kistler force plate platform to measure static balance. Each test was performed three times: (1) Control (CON trial), (2) after Heating (HT trial), and (3) after Heating + Support (HTS trial). Results. ANOVA results showed statistically significant differences between HT and HTS trials compared to CON in postero-lateral reach distance only (p = 0.01) in Lower Quarter Y Balance Test. In static balance, statistically significant differences between trials in antero-posterior (p=0.03), medio-lateral (p = 0.01) and total sway velocity (p = 0.01) were found. Conclusion. The static and dynamic balance after the application of local knee heating and the orthopedic support was improved. These results indicated that local knee heating application combined with the use of orthopedic support could contribute to enhancing posture, balance and gait in young healthy male athletes. However, further studies are needed to clarify these effects on gender and more complex dynamic tasks.