Knee Brace Advice Please

SETappin

Hi All,

I’m seeking advice and experience of using a knee brace.

I need to strengthen my quadriceps and lose weight.

I cannot do leg raises and squats are out of the question.

My dilemma is I have conflicting advice on wearing knee braces.

I have seen two Consultants and Musculoskeletal Physicians and they oppose each other – one group say knee braces do nothing and interfere with the muscles whereas the other group state that knee braces support the knee, give confidence, reduce pain, allow exercises and do not interfere with muscle development.

I have been told I need a new knee and the quicker I lose weight and strengthen my thighs the better for my knee replacement.

I know we all have different conditions with arthritis and injuries (I have both) but I would appreciate any feedback if you used knee braces and in your case did it help or hinder you.

Thanks,
Steve

stickywicket

Hi Steve and welcome to the forum.

I've used a knee support before I had my TKRs and I used one when one of them started to fail (after 27 years so don't panic). I occasionally use one for the other TKR which is now officially 'knackered'.

I kind of agree with both your specialists. I find knee supports (I use the kind that fasten with three velcro straps, available from chemists) very useful tools to use for limited periods of time eg when the knee is very bad but the supermarket shop must be done. In exceptional circumstances I've sometimes left one on for about 4-5 hours.

They do a great job of supporting a dodgy knee but I've always been led to believe that leaving it on for long periods would encourage muscle weakening. I've never attempted to do my daily quads while wearing one as it just seems counterproductive. The muscles need to be as strong as possible both to protect arthritic joints and also any new implant. I did my quads right up to the ops and started again the day after.

SETappin

Thanks for your reply - things to think about

dreamdaisy

It's not conflicting advice as such, both opinions are valid. I used to wear the neoprene ones (cheap as chips from the local chemist) but only when a particularly strenuous day beckoned. Those were the days now a strenuous day involves getting up and having a shower. :roll:

Get one that suits you but limit the wearing of it. We do need to keep our muscles as strong as possible to better support our joints, I do the squeeze-and-relax exercises I was given after my first synovectomy on a daily basis - they hurt my knees and ankles (OA in both) but they are essential. DD

SETappin

Thanks for your reply too.