Knee Bracing Guidelines
Introduction to Knee Bracing
- The American College of Rheumatology strongly recommends knee braces for patients whose joint disease causes significant impact on mobility, stability, or pain 1
- Tibiofemoral knee braces are strongly recommended for patients with knee osteoarthritis when disease is causing substantial impact on ambulation, joint stability, or pain 1
- Patellofemoral braces are conditionally recommended specifically for patellofemoral knee osteoarthritis 1
Tibiofemoral Braces
- Provide stability for knee joint 1
- Strong recommendation for use in appropriate patients 1
- Should be fitted properly with attention to hinge placement relative to femoral condyles 2
Patellofemoral Braces
- Help resist lateral displacement of the patella 1
- Conditionally recommended due to variability in results 1
- Often incorporate elastic material such as neoprene with straps or buttresses 2
Proper Use and Maintenance of Knee Braces
- Knee braces should be selected based on the specific knee condition (tibiofemoral vs. patellofemoral) 2
- Properly fitted - select the longest brace that fits the patient's leg, as shorter braces provide less medial collateral ligament protection 2
- Regularly maintained - check daily for positioning and structural integrity 2
- Properly placed - correct hinge placement relative to femoral condyles is essential 2
Important Considerations
- Subjective benefits often exceed objective findings 2
- May provide a false sense of security 2
- Can limit speed and athleticism in some cases 2
- Proper coordination between primary care providers, specialists, and brace providers is essential 1