If you're suffering from unicompartmental osteoarthritis in your knees, a condition in which only one side of the joint is damaged, an unloader knee brace might help reduce the pain you're experiencing.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of an unloader knee brace, how it works, the pros and cons, and where to buy one. As with every medical treatment, please ask your doctor or physical therapist before buying and using an unloader knee brace.
Benefits of an Unloader Knee Brace
An unloading knee brace can help reduce pain with little to no side effects, unlike pain medications. In addition, it can prevent further deterioration of the knee by reducing pressure on the affected area. By helping prevent deterioration, it can delay the need for surgery.
How Does An Unloader Knee Brace Work?
When knee osteoarthritis mostly affects one side of the knee joint, an unloader knee brace can be utilized to give stability, support, and pain alleviation. The purpose of this type of knee brace is to “unload” or shift pressure from one side of the joint to the other. To put it another way, an unloading knee brace performs exactly what its name implies—it transfers tension from the joint's injured side to the healthy side.
Who Should Wear an Unloading Knee Brace?
People with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis, an arthritis that affects the interior region of the knee, are frequently prescribed unloader knee braces. When walking, knee instability in certain situations might cause the knee to wobble inward toward the inside of the leg. An unloader knee brace relieves pressure from your knee's weak spot and increases your stability. Once more, this is most beneficial if the knee joint on the opposite side is quite healthy and able to carry the pressure.
Will you benefit from an Unloading Knee Brace?
Yes, if...
- Imaging testing have revealed that you have symptomatic unicompartmental osteoarthritis.
- You have mild to moderate cartilage degradation.
- You're prepared to invest the necessary time and effort to get results.
- Your skin is not easily irritated or sensitive.
No, consider a different brace if..
- Your knee OA symptoms impact multiple compartments.
- Imaging testing has not yet verified that you have osteoarthritis.
- Irrespective of the type of OA you have, your cartilage deterioration is significant.
- You are unable or unwilling to invest the time and effort necessary to gain the rewards.
Using An Unloading Knee Brace
The unloading knee braces come in a variety of styles. Your doctor or physical therapist will specify whether you should purchase a brace or order a custom-fit or custom-made model if they write you a prescription for one. You might need to have your brace professionally ordered from one of the manufacturers depending on your condition. To ensure that you obtain the fit and features that are ideal for your condition, the manufacturer will ask questions about the size and functionality of your knee.
You will receive instructions from your doctor or physical therapist regarding how frequently you should wear your brace, when you must wear it, and when you shouldn't.
On a more practical side, choose loose-fitting slacks, shorts, or a skirt because unloader knee braces can be cumbersome. You'll want some room for the brace to be able to move under your clothes.
Where to Buy
Your doctor or physical therapist may have recommendations of where to buy your knee brace or may be able to make a custom one for you in their office. There are also several options for researching the best brace for you and ordering online, such as Amazon, Braceability, and more.
Ortho 301262-05 Medial Osteoarthritis Knee Brace, Medium
Relieve knee pain and improve stability with our Ortho 301262-05 Medial Osteoarthritis Knee Brace in a medium size
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