Blog Some Assistive Devices and Orthotics that Support the Knee

Making Daily Activities Easier with Assistive Devices and Orthotics

If you have osteoarthritis in your knee, you may be hesitant to live an active life, which can further worsen your achy joints. However, using assistive devices and orthotics can help reduce knee stress, stiffness, and pain, while improving mobility and helping you stay independent.

Shoe Inserts for Knee Pain

Shoe inserts, such as PediFix® Heel Straights, can effectively prevent knee pain, as they cushion your ankles and knees, reducing discomfort caused by misalignment. They absorb shock, align posture, and correct the way you walk, helping to prevent further knee injuries by relieving pressure and strain.

Knee Side Stabilizers

An osteoarthritis knee brace can help manage pain associated with knee osteoarthritis. Using a brace can help reduce knee pain by shifting your weight away from the most damaged part of your knee, making it easier to get around and walk farther comfortably. Knee stabilizers should be worn during high-contact sports or to prevent knee injuries, and an unloader brace can help shift weight away from the damaged or affected part of the knee.

Patella Pads

A patella brace can keep your kneecap in place during exercise, while a compression sleeve can relieve pain from bruised knees, mild arthritis, a runner's knee, or minor sprains. These braces are scientifically designed to prevent damage and support the knee, and can be used for activities like running, jumping, and squatting in the gym.

Canes and Crutches

When your knee is sore or painful, you may use a cane, which is less cumbersome than crutches or a walker. However, it is a myth that you should use the cane on the same side as your bad leg. To use a cane, you must use the hand opposite the bad leg. You may also use crutches after a knee injury or surgery to help support your weight and reduce strain on your knees.

Reachers and Grab Bars

Reachers and grab bars can be helpful tools to reduce the bending you need to do, which can further wear down cartilage or cause bones to rub against each other. Reachers allow you to pick up things off the floor or other low surfaces using the grabbing mechanism, while grab bars can prevent you from losing your balance and provide something to grab onto in case of a slip or fall.

Sky Medical Supplies has a collection of assistive devices and orthotics.