Will bracing help osteoarthritis of the knee?
Bracing can relieve some of the pain of osteoarthritis in the knee. The painful side of the knee, usually medial, is aggravated with any weight bearing activity. An unloader brace can reduce the pressure on the inside of the leg and provide pain relief and improve physical function. It does this by stabilizing the knee and prevents the outward thrust of the knee during this type of activity.
It is also found that a neoprene sleeve can improve knee joint stability and prevent overuse of the joint (which is what causes the pain)
Bracing the knee for osteoarthritis can be simple or complex. Your doctor and orthotist can do a complete assessment from hip to foot, in both walking and standing positions. Your doctor would then prescribe the level and type of bracing you would need.