An external support device designed to alleviate pressure on the affected compartment of the knee joint, commonly the medial (inner) side, due to cartilage loss. This device aims to shift the load away from the arthritic area, providing pain relief and improved mobility. It is primarily indicated for individuals experiencing osteoarthritis in one compartment of the knee, aiming to postpone or avoid surgical interventions.
The application of such a brace can significantly enhance an individual’s quality of life by reducing pain and increasing function during daily activities. By redistributing forces within the knee joint, these braces can allow individuals to remain active and participate in exercise or other physical activities that might otherwise be limited by pain. Historically, bracing has been utilized as a conservative management approach for knee osteoarthritis, evolving from simple hinged supports to more sophisticated, adjustable models capable of providing targeted unloading.