A knee brace is a simple yet effective way to help treat knee pain without the need for surgery. This handy device provides protection to damaged cartilage or a torn meniscus by reducing the contact force experienced during weight-bearing activities. A brace provides increased knee stability for patients while they undergo physical therapy or joint fluid treatments. Importantly, bracing allows patients to perform strengthening exercises and increases their mobility at work and home. A knee brace also improves alignment and reduces the risk of falling. The medical providers at Reflex Knee Specialists prescribe knee braces for arthritis and other conditions in Portland, Oregon; Bellevue, Washington; and Tempe, Arizona. Here, we dig into everything you need to know about knee braces and when they should be used.
When Should a Patient Use a Knee Brace?
Several causes of knee pain can benefit from a knee brace, including overuse injuries, osteoarthritis, a torn meniscus, or ligament injury. Knee bracing allows patients to keep up with their daily lives and hobbies while also supporting the muscles surrounding the knee. Oftentimes, physical therapy will also be prescribed in addition to a knee brace so that patients can regain mobility and address compensation patterns that have developed due to pain or injury.
It’s important to consult with a medical professional to determine if a knee brace is right for your individual condition. They will be able to fit you with the proper brace and go over how to properly wear it and when to use it. This will also save you the trouble of trying to find an off-the-shelf brace on your own, which can be costly and may not provide the support you require.
Getting Fitted for a Knee Brace
Patients who are properly fitted for a knee brace are more likely to wear their brace. A good fit can also reduce the amount of time it takes to get used to wearing a brace. A full examination with a knee specialist might include the following:
- Ask which activities you hope to keep doing while wearing a knee brace, such as sports or walking.
- Evaluate your knee function by having you walk a few paces.
- Take measurements of your leg and knee to determine what size brace you need.
- Discuss the pros and cons of off-the-shelf and custom braces.
- Review the different types of knee braces and which ones can help with your condition.
- Fit you with various braces to determine which style feels best and is easiest for you to use.
Types of Knee Braces
There are several types of knee braces that can help with reducing pain and improving mobility. They include:
- Sleeve-style knee brace: Helps reduce swelling and provides overall support. These are often used by athletes, especially in sports that require frequent pivoting, such as basketball or tennis.
- Hinged knee brace: Assists with ligament injuries or as an aid to mechanical function.
- Patellar Stabilization brace: Helps improve tracking of the patella (knee cap) and reduce pain related to damaged cartilage on the undersurface of the patella.
- Unloader brace: May be recommended as a knee brace for arthritis to protect underlying cartilage that is damaged or during the recovery period following a torn meniscus.
Should I Use a Knee Brace for Arthritis Pain?
A knee brace is often used to help manage the discomfort of osteoarthritis in the knee. Since the condition can impact one side of the knee more than the other, an unloader brace can help to reduce pain by shifting weight away from the most damaged portion of the knee. Wearing a brace can improve a patient’s activity level and help them walk farther comfortably.
Schedule an Appointment to Discuss Knee Health Today
If you experience recurrent knee discomfort or stiffness, it’s time to schedule a full examination of your knee with a medical specialist. The team at Reflex Knee Specialists is available for consultation in Oregon, Washington, and Arizona. We offer several non-surgical treatments to help patients alleviate discomfort and improve the overall health of their knees. To learn more about knee bracing and to schedule an appointment, contact us today or call 503-719-6783.