Alternatives to Knee Braces

Abstract

Knee braces continue to be a widely utilized piece of medical equipment, ranging from simple over the counter sleeves to more complex functional braces, with the ability to provide electrical stimulation to muscle groups. Despite their popularity, alternatives to knee braces exist for patients who find braces to be ineffective, uncomfortable, cumbersome, or overly expensive. While high-quality studies are lacking for modalities such as neoprene sleeves, compression stockings, and kinesiotaping, there is promising evidence that these interventions can confer an element of stability and pain relief for a variety of knee pathologies both with regard to acute and chronic injuries as well as in the postoperative rehabilitation period. While no “holy grail” exists for the ideal brace, or bracing alternative, it is important for providers to be aware of the options available to patients as well as the current evidence for these various modalities, so that the provider can best guide musculoskeletal care.

Comparative Effects of Wearing Knee Support Brace and Kinesiotaping on Pain, Physical Activity Level and Kinesiophobia in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

“…Among non-surgical options, knee braces have been widely recognized for offering support. However, alternative methods like neoprene sleeves, compression stockings, and kinesiotaping (KT) are gaining traction, showing promise in providing stability and alleviating pain in various knee conditions, including acute and chronic injuries, and postoperative scenarios (11). Recent evidence indicates KT's emerging role as a standard treatment for pain relief and functional enhancement in knee OA patients (12).…”