A low profile, lightweight hinged knee brace is provided for use in providing support to individuals having injuries to their ligaments. The brace includes an upper component that can be formed to fit the thigh of a wearer. The brace further includes a lower component that can likewise be formed to custom fit the calf of the wearer. Both the upper and lower components are encapsulated in a continuous liner. Between the upper and lower components are inflexible rigid members constructed of a lightweight yet durable material to provide strength and rigidity to the brace. The brace is constructed from a two dimensional structure which allows for malleability coupled to a formed three dimensional structure which provides stiffness and enhanced protection of the knee. Methods of treating injuries to a ligament of the knee are similarly provided.
