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Unloader Knee Brace in New Mexico
Explore custom unloader knee braces, tailored for knee osteoarthritis pain relief and enhanced mobility. Serving Las Cruces and El Paso, PrimeCare Orthotics and Prosthetics empowers you to regain your active lifestyle with expert care.
What Is an Unloader Knee Brace?
An unloader knee brace, also called an offloading knee brace, is a specialized orthopedic device crafted to deliver stability, support, and relief from pain for individuals dealing with knee osteoarthritis. By redistributing the load within the knee joint, the stress on the compromised area is lessened, enhancing mobility and diminishing discomfort. An unloading knee brace caters to various activity levels:
- Light Activities: Ideal for individuals engaging in small amounts of walking and standing.
- Moderate to Vigorous Activities: Beneficial for those who are more active, including running, jogging, and hiking.
Braces are available in various sizes and can be custom-fitted to ensure effectiveness for both adults and children.
How Does a Knee Unloader Brace Work?
An unloader knee brace works through a biomechanical principle called the three-point pressure system. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how it operates:
Three-Point Pressure System
The offloading knee brace utilizes a three-point leverage mechanism to apply corrective forces through its hinges and straps. This system shifts the weight from the affected area of the knee to the healthier side, effectively reducing the pressure on the damaged compartment.
Components:
- Frame: The structure is crafted from light materials such as aluminum, carbon fiber, or plastic, featuring supports for both the thigh and calf connected by adjustable hinges above and below the knee.
- Straps: This brace includes adaptable straps that ensure a secure and comfortable fit, permitting users to adjust the support level and unloading to suit their specific needs.
- Dynamic Force Straps and Boa Dial: In advanced models, dynamic force straps coupled with a Boa dial system allow for precise tension adjustments, enhancing the control over the unloading effect and improving relief from pain.
Functionality:
- Load Redistribution: The brace applies targeted pressure to specific areas of the knee, realigning the joint and transferring the load from the damaged compartment to the healthier side.
- Enhanced Alignment: By exerting medial or lateral forces, the brace helps correct varus (bow-legged) or valgus (knock-kneed) deformities, promoting better alignment and reducing discomfort.
- Comfort and Flexibility: Designed to be both lightweight and flexible, unloader knee braces offer substantial support without restricting movement, ensuring comfortable wear for daily activities.
Types of Unloading Knee Braces for Treating Different Conditions
Unloader braces are especially beneficial for the following conditions:
Knee Osteoarthritis
Unloader braces are suitable for unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis, a condition where the cartilage in either the medial or lateral compartment of the knee deteriorates, leading to pain, stiffness, and loss of function. The human knee has three compartments:
- Medial: The inside of the knee.
- Lateral: The outside of the knee.
- Patellofemoral: The compartment behind the kneecap where the patella and femur articulate.
Most patients have unicompartmental osteoarthritis, with the medial compartment often bearing 60% of the load during walking, making it more prone to osteoarthritis. An unloader brace shifts the load to the healthier side of the knee, reducing force on the worn-out compartment, thus alleviating pain.
Degenerative Meniscus Tears
These tears, often a precursor to osteoarthritis, benefit from the unloading action of the brace, which reduces pain and slows further degeneration.
Ligament Injuries
The brace provides stability and support, aiding in the recovery and rehabilitation of ligament injuries, such as ACL or MCL tears.
Post-Surgical Recovery
After knee surgery, an unloader brace supports the healing process by reducing stress on the joint and enhancing stability.
Explore Freedom with a Custom Unloader Knee Brace
Contact Primecare now to find the ideal offloading knee brace for your journey back to mobility!
Benefits of Using an Unloader Knee Brace
The main advantages include:
Delay Knee Replacement Surgery
For individuals with unicompartmental osteoarthritis (affecting only one side of the knee), an unloader knee brace can effectively postpone the need for knee replacement surgery. It also provides significant pain relief while waiting for surgery, offering a non-invasive management option.
Enhance Post-Surgical Knee Pain and Stability
Following surgeries like anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), an unloader knee brace can significantly reduce knee pain related to osteoarthritis and enhance overall stability. This support is essential for a smoother recovery and improved rehabilitation outcomes.
Alleviate Joint Stress
By altering the knee's movement and structure, an unloader knee brace helps reduce stress on the joint. It redistributes the load from the damaged area to a healthier part of the knee, thus minimizing pain and inflammation.
Support Knee Rehabilitation
Athletes recovering from knee injuries can greatly benefit from an unloader knee brace. It provides the necessary support and stability, aiding in a safer and more effective rehabilitation process.
Cost-Effective Solution
Unloader knee braces are considered a cost-effective treatment option. They offer substantial pain relief and functional improvement without the significant side effects associated with surgery or long-term medication use.
Custom Unloader Knee Brace Process
- Evaluation
During your initial appointment, our prosthetist will review your medical history and discuss your lifestyle goals. They will then take precise measurements of your knee and submit the information to your insurance provider.
- Customization and Fabrication
Upon securing insurance approval, we forward your measurements to our esteemed partner's specialized fabrication center. Skilled technicians employ cutting-edge methods and advanced equipment to meticulously craft your personalized unloader knee brace, ensuring superior craftsmanship.
- Adjustment and Fitting
A subsequent appointment will be arranged to verify the optimal fit and functionality of your knee brace. Our experienced clinicians will offer instructions on gradually increasing usage duration to fully leverage the advantages of your customized device.
Why Choose Us for Unloader Knee Orthoses?
Personalized Support
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Contact a Trusted Local Offloading Knee Brace Provider in New Mexico
PrimeCare is conveniently located in Las Cruces and El Paso, serving patients from Ciudad Juarez, El Paso, and surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey to improved knee health.
Mon-Fri: 9:00am-5:00pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
FAQ
Can you run with an unloader knee brace?
Yes, you can run with an unloader knee brace, but it's important to consider the specific condition of your knee and the level of knee instability you experience.
How to wear an unloader knee brace
Properly wearing an unloader knee brace is crucial for it to be effective. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Position the Brace: Place the brace on your leg so that the hinges align with the center of your knee joint. Ensure that the thigh and calf supports are positioned correctly above and below the knee.
- Secure the Straps: Fasten the straps around your thigh and calf. Make sure they are snug but not too tight to ensure comfort and effective support. Adjust the straps as necessary to achieve a secure fit.
- Adjust the Hinges: If your brace has adjustable hinges, set them according to your healthcare provider's recommendations. This will ensure the correct amount of unloading and support for your knee.
- Check the Fit: Walk around and perform a few basic movements to ensure the brace stays in place and does not cause discomfort. Adjust the straps and hinges if needed.
Patients typically wear unloader knee braces under clothing, ideally directly against the skin or under a thin layer. They are compatible with most pants that offer some flexibility, like chinos or cargo pants, but may not fit well under skinny jeans. Alternatively, you can wear the brace over your activewear during physical activities.