Braces For Osteoarthritis Knee - In Depth!

Osteoarthritis may affect any joint of your body. And knee arthritis is one of the most common versions of arthritis. It can cause immense inconvenience and braces can help mitigate many of these bothers.

When Do Braces become a Necessity? 

The cartilage at the knee joint cushions the knee and protects the knee from the shock waves of walking, running and other movements by absorbing them. But in some people, the cartilage begins to wear out slowly and when this happens, the underlying bone is exposed and made vulnerable. The degeneration of the cartilage and its consequences trigger excruciating pain, disruption of weight distribution and the unnatural growth of bone spurs around the knee joint.

As the disorder progresses, one side of the knee wears away more than the other and this affects the person’s gait as well. To correct the misalignment, doctors prescribe knee braces.

How Does A Knee Brace Work?

A knee brace is like a tightly fitted sock that you slip your leg through and pull it up to the knee. It sits snugly around your knee. It exerts pressure on your knee and the surrounding area.

A knee brace redistributes the weight evenly. It shifts the weight from the worn and damaged part of your knee onto a lesser damaged part. That eases a lot of the pain you had been suffering. A knee brace will help you get back on your feet and even walk long distances. It puts to rights your gait and stance as well.

Are there any Complications that can arise out of Knee Braces?

Knee braces may help you return to a normal life, you must be prepared for a few minor problems.

• Discomfort -

You will feel uncomfortable until you get accustomed to the braces. The knee and the surrounding areas might itch and become sore. The brace will feel cumbersome and your knee might even feel hot and sweaty.

• The knee skin may become red and swell up -

The only way for braces to be effective is if they fit well. Your doctor can help recommend the brand and size. Moreover, braces are made with different kinds of materials. You need one that suits your skin. After you get the brace fitted to your knee, visit the doctor again who will be able to tell you if the brace is indeed perfect for you.