Knee Brace Eases Osteoarthritis Pain

Using a valgus knee brace can help improve pain and function in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis (OA), according to a new study.

Researchers at the University of Western Ontario (London, Canada) conducted a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials that compared changes in reported pain and/or function in patients with medial knee OA. Seven databases were searched from their inception to January 2014. Two reviewers independently determined study eligibility, rated risk of bias and extracted data. In all, six studies that included 445 patients were incorporated in the meta-analysis.

Overall, the results showed a statistically significant difference favoring the valgus brace group for improvement in pain and function. When compared to a control group that did not use an orthosis, the effect size was moderate. When compared to a control group that used a control orthosis, only a small, statistically significant effect for pain remained. Instructions for brace use varied considerably and compliance ranged, with up to 25% of the patients reported minor complications with brace use. The study was published online on September 8, 2014, in Arthritis Care and Research.

“Braces that apply a valgus torque to the knee are intended to shift load from the medial compartment,” concluded lead author Rebecca Moyer, PhD, and colleagues. “The study suggests valgus bracing for medial knee osteoarthritis results in small-to-moderate improvements in pain.”

A valgus knee brace uses leverage to decrease stress to the medial aspect of the knee, decreasing further wear and pain. The leverage is created by using abduction pressure on the outer aspect of the knee, opening the joint on the inside; this improves alignment, helping to eliminate an abnormal gait or limp. Valgus knee braces are available in a variety of styles and types, ranging from a basic knee sleeve with a built-in unloader hinge, to a brace that is rigid and custom made. The hinge may be preset, or have an adjustment allowing for an increase or decrease in load to meet specific needs.

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University of Western Ontario