Braces & Orthotics— Do They Really Work for Knee Pain?

Knee braces and orthotics have been around for many years. They are completely non-invasive and simple to use. Given their seemingly basic nature, you might wonder if they are actually effective for relieving knee pain. Very often, they are! This blog post discusses their benefits and how you can find out if one of these devices could help you.

How Knee Braces and Orthotics May Relieve Knee Pain

Knee braces and orthotic devices serve different functions, but both can play a valuable role in managing knee pain. Here are some of their potential benefits:

• Stabilization: Braces can help stabilize your knee joint, especially if you have ligament injuries or experience feelings of instability. This support can prevent excessive movement that might otherwise cause pain or further injury.
• Pressure Redistribution: Orthotics, particularly shoe inserts, can redistribute pressure more evenly across your foot and knee. This reduces stress on specific areas that might be inflamed or injured.
• Pain Reduction: Both braces and orthotics can help alleviate pain by lessening the load on affected tissues. For example, unloading braces are designed to shift weight away from the damaged part of your knee.
• Improved Alignment: Some orthotic devices correct misalignment in your lower limbs, which can reduce abnormal strain on the knee joint and slow the progression of certain conditions like osteoarthritis.
• Injury Prevention: By offering support during physical activity, knee braces can help prevent injuries in individuals at higher risk, such as athletes and those with previous knee issues.
• Post-Surgical Recovery: Doctors may recommend specific braces or orthotics after surgical procedures to protect healing tissues and encourage proper movement patterns.

Will a Brace or Orthotic Device Benefit You?

Deciding whether you need a knee brace or orthotic device starts with understanding your symptoms and lifestyle. If you experience knee pain during daily activities, have a history of injuries, or notice instability in your knee, a supportive device may be helpful. It is also important to consider your specific diagnosis, since some conditions respond better to bracing and orthotics than others.

It is wise to consult a non-surgical orthopedic doctor if you are uncertain about your needs or if your symptoms persist despite using a brace or orthotic. These specialists can assess your condition, recommend the most suitable device, and guide you on proper use. They may also recommend that you use a brace or orthotic insert as a complement to other treatments, rather than a standalone therapy.

Visiting a doctor is especially important if you notice increased pain or swelling, or if your pain continues for more than a few days to a week. Early intervention can help you avoid further damage and get back to the activities you enjoy with greater comfort and confidence.

Orthotics and knee braces might seem simple, but they can play a big role in helping you feel good again! Professional guidance can help you choose the right device and get the most out of it.

Meet the Practice

At the Institute for Non-Surgical Orthopedics, our team is proud to provide a broad range of non-invasive and minimally invasive treatments for common musculoskeletal issues, including knee injuries and degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. We often recommend bracing as part of a comprehensive care plan. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, contact our Fort Lauderdale office at 954-563-2707.