Osteoarthritis: When Your Doctor Prescribes a Knee Brace

If you’ve been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, your doctor may prescribe a knee brace for stability, along with other treatments like medicine and visits to a physical therapist. Knee braces can reduce osteoarthritis symptoms, and many patients report improved knee function while wearing the brace. The brace can lessen pain you might experience while going up stairs, walking or performing other daily activities. Knee braces may enable you to walk further and for a longer time than you could without the brace. 

Once you become accustomed to the brace, it can help you avoid favoring one leg and avoid further damage. The brace may make standing easier, enabling you to walk around more confidently. Some patients also use a cane.

Getting to Know Your Knee Brace

Your brace will likely be made with both inflexible and bendable parts, with a plastic, composite or metal structure. Artificial rubber or malleable foam pieces help adjust the fit for comfort. Flexible padding also helps to prevent the device from rubbing or slipping around your knee. An orthotist will design, build and fit your brace based upon your doctor’s prescription.

It’s a good idea to check your health insurance coverage to see what type of brace may be covered. Custom braces can be expensive, but off-the-shelf models are also available.

Risks of a Knee Brace

• You may experience discomfort and/or a feeling of heaviness when you begin wearing your brace. You may feel hot until you become used to the device.
• Skin irritation may occur if the brace doesn’t fit well.
• You may experience swelling around your knee joint.
• Some osteoarthritis patients don’t feel more comfortable or stronger with a knee brace, getting little benefit from it. Allow yourself enough time to get used to the brace, before deciding whether or not it’s helpful. Ask your physical therapist or physician to suggest an alternative stability device.

If you have a problem with your knee brace, contact your doctor.

When you need medical supplies, visit Mar-J Medical Supply online or call our toll-free number for assistance. Stop by our retail location in Boca Raton when in the area.

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