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Braces, Orthotics, Canes and OA
Our knee joints consist of two compartments: the “medial” and the “lateral”. Even though the medial is more often affected, both compartments usually fall victim to severe osteoarthritis (OA).
OA of the knees creates knee pain with some degree of unsteadiness associated with a common complaint of knee buckling, locking up, or giving way. Because of this, prevention is a key element when treating OA of the knee, and using a brace, insoles, or a cane to support your vulnerable knee help.
A knee brace is commonly prescribed for OA of the knees because it can stabilize the affected joint, while shifting body weight off of the affected compartment and positioning the joints correctly to prevent further deformity and to reduce pain. However, choosing the right type of brace is very important because an improperly fitted brace can cause unwanted pressure and shifts in alignment.
Made up of an array of plastics, metals, leathers and moldable foam, some braces are available over-the counter at drug or medical-supply stores, while others can be special ordered to fit your exact shape and size with the use of a foot mold. In general, using a brace is a great device that can reduce stress and weight bearing on the affected joints, increase stability, and help prevent falls.
Unfortunately, braces cannot cure OA and may not be right for everyone. Because the degree of OA, whether or not both compartments are involved, or if the person is quite overweight, bracing offer benefits to some, while not to others.
An alternative device to reduce the symptoms of medial compartment OA is the well known “orthotic insoles”. These “wedges” can change foot alignment, which also can help shift weight bearing from the medial (inner) to the lateral (outer) compartment of the knee. This repositioning can be effective at reducing arthritis-related symptoms for patients with mild to moderate medial compartment OA of the knee.
If all else fails and you suffer from severe OA of the knee, you may benefit the most by not using a knee brace, but by using a cane. When walking, you should grasp the cane in the hand opposite to the affected knee, maintain the handle of the cane at wrist level when your arm is extended, and comfortably flex your elbow to a 20 to 30 degree angle. Using a cane correctly can also effectively shift weight loading from the affected knee joint to the other, all while providing support, pain reduction, improved stability, and fall prevention.
By Dr. Yong H. Tsai
Published in The Daytona Beach News-Journal
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