Bracing, Orthoses, and Gait Aids for Osteoarthritis
Bracing/Foot Orthoses
Bracing and orthotics can be effective tools for managing osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms by improving joint stability, reducing pain or swelling and enhancing mobility.
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Bracing: There are several different types of knee braces to address specific needs in symptom management. An unloader/off loader brace, for example, changes the alignment of your knee to reduce the force travelling through the damaged part of the knee, while a sleeve may help alleviate swelling while also providing stability.
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Foot Orthoses: Foot alignment can contribute to knee issues. Addressing the issue from the ground up may reduce knee pain as well.
The following places offer complimentary consultations to help determine which option may work best for you to address your individual needs and concerns.
Gait Aids
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Canes: a great option for individuals with mild to moderate OA who can still walk relatively well and just need some assistance for balance and pain relief.
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Walkers: a better option for those with severe OA where balance and strength may be compromised, and the risk of falling is greater. A walker offers significantly more support and security and can be helpful for individuals who need to walk longer distances or require extra support.
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The choice between a 2-wheel walker or 4-wheel walker depends on your overall balance and mobility.
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2-wheel walker: a better choice for additional support and slower gait
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4-wheel walker: suitable for those with better balance and mobility
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Walking Poles: Not only do they help with balance and stability, walking poles also help reduce stress on the joints of the lower extremity while promoting increased fitness by encouraging the use of your core muscles.
