Not everyone with arthritis needs a brace, but for those who do, the benefits can be significant. Next question: Which type of knee brace works best? We can help with that.
Award-winning orthopedist Dr. Sumit Dewanjee of FXRX in Tempe and Phoenix, Arizona, is a well-known knee arthritis specialist. Although he’s a gifted surgeon, Dr. Dewanjee first focuses on nonsurgical treatments, such as knee braces, to relieve pain, improve mobility, and help prevent further joint damage.
Dr. Dewanjee starts with an evaluation to identify the level of joint damage you’re experiencing. He may then recommend a knee brace as part of your comprehensive treatment strategy.
So, why use a knee brace for arthritis?
Here are five key benefits our team cites for using a knee brace if you’re living with arthritis and which type might work best for your condition:
Targeted support where you need it most
Whether your arthritis affects the inside (medial), outside (lateral), or behind the kneecap (patellofemoral) part of the knee, a brace can offload stress from the affected region. This helps reduce pain during movement.
FXRX offers both off-the-shelf braces and custom braces. Custom knee braces are designed specifically to fit your knee’s shape, size, and problem areas.
If you’ve ever considered a knee brace, you know there are a wide variety of styles and types available. Each is designed to serve a specific function, from hinged models that control knee range of motion to sleeve types that help reduce swelling and pain.
Dr. Dewanjee recommends brace types based on your individual needs, eliminating the guesswork in choosing a brace that best suits your joint condition.
Improved mobility and confidence
Arthritis can make your knee feel weak or unstable. This often causes people to limit their movement.
A well-fitted brace provides stability and reassurance, making it easier and safer to stay active. Improved mobility can enhance your physical health and emotional well-being.
Better fit with a custom brace
No one wants to wear a bulky, uncomfortable brace that slides down their leg or pinches their skin. Because a custom brace is made to fit your knee, it’s more comfortable to wear for long periods.
This means you’re more likely to use it consistently and reap the full benefits.
Delays the need for surgery
While not a cure, a well-fitted brace that meets your needs can often buy time, sometimes years, before you need more invasive treatments.
In some cases, it may even help you avoid surgery altogether. By reducing joint load and improving alignment, the correct brace can help slow the progression of arthritis.
Supports your treatment plan
A knee brace isn’t a standalone solution. It’s part of a larger strategy that Dr. Dewanjee tailors to your needs.
Knee treatments Dr. Dewanjee may recommend, along with a brace, include:
- Physical therapy
- Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
- Weight management
- Activity modification
Dr. Dewanjee also offers advanced knee treatments. For arthritis, this may include viscosupplementation injections to restore joint lubrication, steroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation, or regenerative medicine therapy with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cells.
You may also benefit from minimally invasive procedures, such as cartilage regeneration or replacement, which can help you avoid knee replacement.
Feeling the pain or stiffness of knee arthritis?
Don’t ignore your symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment may help prevent further joint damage and delay (potentially eliminate) the need for knee replacement.
Schedule a visit with Dr. Dewanjee at FXRX today. Call our office or request an appointment through our online service.
