Knee Brace Osteoarthritis

Why use knee braces & supports for osteoarthritis?

A knee brace for osteoarthritis provides support and compression to the joint, which helps to stabilise it during movement. The gentle compression also improves blood circulation, which can reduce stiffness and swelling. By keeping the knee correctly aligned, a support can reduce the risk of further strain or injury, especially during everyday activities. It also works preventively by providing continuous support around the knee joint, which helps to manage pain, increases confidence in movement and protects against excessive strain or twisting.

If you suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee, you can combine a stabilising knee brace with other common-sense treatments to reduce pain, strain and stiffness in the knee joint:

• Physical activity: Exercising and moving around can have a pain-relieving effect, and it is also beneficial for the joint as it is lubricated with synovial fluid. Cycling, water aerobics and swimming offer more gentle strain on the knee joint in cases of osteoarthritis.
• Strength training: Strengthening the muscles around the knee joint is essential. Strength training specifically works to strengthen the muscles around the affected kneecap, as stronger muscles can reduce pain and improve joint function. Strength training can be done at home or at the gym, with or without weights and machines.
• Shock-absorbing shoes & insoles: Insoles and specially adapted shoes can help by improving alignment, absorbing shock, reducing stress on the joints, increasing stability and promoting better weight distribution.
• Diet & weight loss: Losing weight reduces the strain on the knee, which can help with all knee problems – not just knee osteoarthritis. It is also healthy to avoid processed foods, grains, sugar, dairy products, and to reduce your intake of products with high levels of omega 6, such as margarine and sunflower oil.

Different types of knee braces and knee supports

We offer a wide range of knee braces with different designs and functionalities. The main purpose of a knee brace is to provide stabilisation, support and relief during both activity and rest, and this is something that all options offer – regardless of what you are suffering from or trying to counteract.

Knee braces with splints

Dynamic knee braces with splints are designed to provide maximum stability and relief for people who experience significant instability or joint weakness. The built-in side splints guide and support the movements of the knee and prevent it from twisting or overextending, which can relieve pain caused by cartilage wear. Some models also feature a pad, a padded, comfortable cushion that targets the kneecap area to relieve pressure and increase comfort.

This type of brace helps you manage what causes knee strain by controlling movement and redistributing load, making it ideal for people with moderate to severe arthritis who need robust structural support during activity.

Elastic knee supports

An elastic knee support is designed to provide gentle, even compression that helps relieve knee pain while being comfortable enough to wear daily. It is made from materials that provide support without restricting movement and promote optimal joint function and warmth, which can facilitate rehabilitation by improving flexibility and reducing stiffness.

This type of knee support is designed to be particularly suitable for active people, as it can easily be used during sports, exercise and athletics to maintain stability and confidence. The lightweight design provides supportive compression that promotes circulation and effectively counteracts mild arthritis symptoms. This support is also popular with people who experience general knee discomfort, such as soreness and inflammation, and as a rehabilitation tool after cruciate ligament injuries and wear and tear.

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?

The symptoms of knee osteoarthritis usually start mildly but can worsen over time. Common problems include start-up pain, stiffness and reduced mobility in the knee joint, as well as pain during movement and sometimes at rest. Swelling around the knee is also common.

How is knee osteoarthritis treated?

Although surgery may be an option, most initial treatments focus on relieving the joint with the help of knee braces. Physical activity, strength training and the use of shock-absorbing shoes are important components of treatment. Weight loss and shoe inserts can also help reduce pain.

Can you run when you have osteoarthritis?

Running and certain sports are not always recommended for people with severe osteoarthritis. However, those with milder symptoms can often adapt their training with the right running technique and knee braces to reduce pain during physical activity.