Choosing a Brace for an Arthritic Knee

For some, an arthritic knee may seem like the end of the world. Far from it! Physical therapy, the right amount of exercise, determination, and a strong knee brace may help you control your arthritis and any associated pain. Meet with a physical therapist that your doctor recommends and they will give you a list of good exercises for your particular needs. Your doctor can also help you select a knee brace that will help provide support as you perform your physical therapy exercises and build strength.

How Do I Get a Good Knee Brace?

First, your doctor will write a prescription for a knee brace for you based on your level(s) of pain and where the discomfort is located in your knee. S/he will then refer you to an orthotist who professionally designs custom knee braces for those with knee discomfort. Custom knee braces can cost up to $1500.00, so it is advisable to check how much your health insurance may or may not cover if for a knee brace.

During the first fitting with an orthotist they will make sure your knee brace fits properly. They will explain how to put it on and take it off. They may ask you to walk around with the knee brace, and make appropriate adjustments. This is the time to share with the orthotist any discomfort you may feel, or if you want more adjustments made..

How Do Knee Braces Help?

Knee braces balance the weight in your knee so the area with the most arthritis pain won’t have as much pressure on it. Most knee braces are made from metal, plastic, rubber and foam padding. The padding is meant to alleviate any soreness from wearing the knee brace. Even with some foam padding it is possible you may experience some discomfort. That small discomfort, however, may be far less difficult to endure than exercising/moving without a knee brace, so the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

We construct custom knee braces for patients suffering from arthritis or knee injuries at Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centres of Ontario. If you have chronic pain and want to improve your mobility, please call us at (905) 579-9938.