Knee osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. In the knee, the smooth cartilage that cushions the joint gradually thins, so the joint becomes painful, stiff and sometimes swollen. It often affects one side of the knee more than the other, usually the inner side.

Common signs

• Knee pain that is worse with walking, stairs or standing up from a chair
• Stiffness first thing in the morning or after sitting
• Swelling, creaking or grinding
• A knee that feels weak or unstable

How orthotics can help

Exercise, physiotherapy and keeping to a healthy weight remain the foundation of treatment. A brace can work alongside them:

• Unloader (offloader) knee braces shift some of the load away from the worn side of the knee. For some people this means less pain and the ability to walk further. [Confirm the brands you fit.]
• Supportive knee sleeves and braces for mild symptoms or a knee that feels unstable
• Foot orthoses in selected cases, to change how forces travel up to the knee

Not everyone is a good candidate for an unloader brace. It depends on which part of the knee is affected, your leg alignment and your activity level. We'll assess you honestly. We also work with your doctor and physiotherapist, and with your surgeon if you are considering or delaying a knee replacement.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor promptly if:

• your knee is suddenly hot, red and swollen, or you have a fever
• you can't put weight on your leg, or the knee locks or gives way after an injury
• you have severe pain at night that doesn't settle
• your calf is swollen and painful, especially after surgery or a long trip.