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Advice on Knee Braces for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis causes pain, stiffness and inflammation to joint linings in the body. It is a condition that affects about 1.3 million people in the United States. Usually, rheumatoid arthritis starts to form between the ages of 25 and 55, and typically affects twice as many women than men. The knee is commonly affected by rheumatoid arthritis, and many people seek relief by wearing a knee brace. With so many different kinds of knee braces on the market it can be difficult finding the right one.

  1. Knee Braces

    • Arthritis knee braces, otherwise known as unloader knee braces, are braces that are specifically designed to minimize the pressure that is placed on the arthritic knee joint. Rheumatoid arthritis causes decreased cartilage, stiffness, bone spur formations, inflammation and pain to the joints and can ultimately affect movement and restrict mobility. People with rheumatoid arthritis use knee braces to either protect the knee joint, to preserve the joint, to properly align the knee or to relieve joint pain.
      Many different knee braces are designed specifically for people who have arthritis. The type of knee brace that you should wear depends on where your knee needs the most support. The different areas of support to the knee joint are to the outside, inside and behind the kneecap. An outside support brace or a medial/ lateral knee brace gives stability to the outside of the knee. A medical arthritis support brace is specifically for helping provide stability to the inside area of the knee joint. A knee brace that helps to support the back of the knee is called a patellofemoral brace.
      Knee braces can be made out of a variety of different materials including plastic, metal, elastic, mesh or knit fabric.

    Doctor Consultation

    • It is very important that you consult with your doctor or physical therapist to determine which knee brace will satisfy your specific needs. Your doctor can recommend one that feels the best on your knee. You may also need physical therapy and medication to treat knee joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Discussing all treatment options available to you with your doctor is vital for health and quality of life.

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