Arthritis knee pain and unloader knee braces

Unloader knee braces can be effective in providing relief and support for individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA). These braces are designed to reduce the load or pressure on the affected joint, particularly the medial (inner) or lateral (outer) compartments of the knee, depending on the location of the OA.

Here are some key points about the effectiveness of unloader knee braces for OA:

Pain Reduction: Unloader knee braces are primarily aimed at reducing pain associated with knee OA. By unloading the affected compartment of the knee, these braces help to shift the load to healthier areas of the joint, which can alleviate pain during weight-bearing activities.

Improved Function: By reducing pain, unloader knee braces can improve knee function and mobility. They can help individuals with OA engage in activities that may have been difficult due to pain, such as walking, climbing stairs, or participating in low-impact exercises.

Individual Variation: The effectiveness of unloader knee braces can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience significant pain relief and functional improvement, while others may experience more modest benefits. The success of the brace depends on factors such as the severity of OA, individual anatomy, compliance with brace usage, and overall knee health.

Adjunct to Other Treatments: Unloader knee braces are often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for knee OA, which may include exercise, physical therapy, weight management, and medication. They are not typically used as a standalone treatment but rather as a supportive measure to enhance the overall management of OA symptoms.

Customization and Professional Assistance: Unloader knee braces are typically prescribed and fitted by healthcare professionals, such as orthotists or physical therapists, to ensure proper fit, alignment, and optimal effectiveness. Customization based on individual needs and OA characteristics is important for achieving the best outcomes.

It’s worth noting that unloader knee braces may not be suitable for everyone. They are generally recommended for individuals with unicompartmental knee OA (affecting one side of the knee) who have not responded adequately to conservative treatments and are not yet ready for surgical intervention.

At PhysioPlus we specialize in provide unloading knee braces from Ossur. They are a world leader in unloading technology and are excellent products to help people with medial or lateral knee pain related to OA.