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Brace (orthopaedic)

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Two different braces used to treat scoliosis

An orthopaedic brace (also orthosis or orthotic) is a device used to:

  • immobilize a joint or body segment,
  • restrict movement in a given direction,
  • assist movement,
  • reduce weight bearing forces, or
  • correct the shape of the body.

Often in the U.S., the last purpose listed above is what is commonly called a brace, whether it is made from elastic, neoprene, or a stiffer, more restrictive construction such as hard plastic or metal. An orthotic is most often understood to be a somewhat flexible device, often an insert for shoes, to correct leg length, fallen arches (flat feet), or some other foot problem.

In the UK a brace of this kind is usually referred to as a caliper (sometimes calliper in British spelling). Often the older type of leg brace is meant, constructed of steel side bars and ring, with spurs which fit into a metal tube in the heel of an adapted shoe or boot, and with leather straps and bands around the leg to hold the splint in position. The straps can be secured with velcro, but many patients prefer buckles. This type of caliper can either be non-weight relieving or, by slight lengthening, made to relieve weight by raising the heel of the foot away from the heel of the shoe or boot. These splints have to be individually made by an orthotist or appliance maker closely to fit the particular contours of the leg being supported.

Brace are made from multiple types of materials including plastic, elastic, metal, or a combination of other similar materials. Some design can be bought at a local retailer while others are more specific and require a prescription from an specialized physician who will fit the brace according to the patient's need. Over-the-counter braces are basic and available in multiple sizes. They are generally slid onto the knee or strapped on from the back with Velcro. The intention of these braces is to protect from injury by holding it tightly into place. [1] Custom knee braces are made to fit specific measurements and can take weeks before they are ready for use. Braces should never be worn without previously consulting a professional doctor or physical therapist.

Knee braces

Knee braces are worn around the knee and work by relieving pressure off the part of the knee joint that is affected by ailments such as arthritis or osteoarthritis. They can also offer support for the knee and provide the stability needed to perform daily activities. Knee braces may also help to properly align your knee to help reduce osteoarthritis pain. [2] If pain or instability is experienced, a knee brace might be the right choice. They are not meant to treat arthritis, injury, or osteoarthritis on their own, but are used as a portion of the full treatment along with medicines and physical therapy. They are beneficial in a number of different areas and when used properly, an orthopaedic brace such as a knee brace can be incredibly helpful for an athlete to stay in peak performance. Knee braces may also help by improving symmetry and enhancing the position and movement of the knee while reducing the amount of pain that is felt so that a person can remain active. [3] Individuals whom cannot undergo surgery can also consider the usage of a knee brace to help them handle the pain and discomfort experienced as symptoms of injury or of a permanent condition of disability. Although a knee brace cannot be a substitute for orthopedic surgery, it can be effective for people whom are too young to undergo it. They are also effective in cases where only one side of the knee is experiencing the pain. This type of condition can develop if a person's alignment is not correct and weight is being placed on one side of the knee more than the other. A general knee rehabilitation program which includes strengthening exercises, flexibility exercises, aerobic conditioning, technique refinement and proprioceptive retraining is the most important factor in improving knee function and stability. [4]

Types of knee braces

Prophylactic braces are worn primarily by athletes whom participate in contact sports. It is possible that this type of brace will alter the force on the knee and become problematic. When they are worn properly, there is a decrease in the rate of injuries. The majority of these braces are neoprene braces. They are sleeves that provide support to the structure of the knee and reduce the knee's ability to rotate.[5]

Functional braces are designed for use by persons whom have already experienced a knee injury and need support to recover from it. They are also indicated to help people whom are suffering from pain associated with arthritis. They are intended to reduce the rotation of the knee and support stability. It reduces the chance for hyper-extension and increases the agility and energy of the knee. The majority of these are elastic knee braces or supports. They are the least expensive of all braces and are easily found in a multitude of sizes and fits.

Rehabilitation braces are used to limit the movement of the knee in both medial and lateral directions. They are primarily used after injury or surgery to immobilize the leg. They are larger in stature than other braces due to their intended use.

Unloader braces are designed specifically for patients whom are experiencing pain due to arthritis in the knees or incorrect alignment. Their primary function is to reduce the amount of stress or pressure being applied to the knee and to take the weight away from the side of the knee affected by arthritis. The majority of these braces are hinged braces and can be made with one or two hinges. This type of brace is most commonly used when a patient is not ready for surgery or for those that are healing from surgery. It provides stability during walking, standing, or during the motions of physical therapy exercises and can relieve pain considerably. A hinged knee brace is likely to provide the best support for the knee and contains metal reinforcements in the sides which are connected by a hinge in the middle.

See also

  • Dental brace
  • Orthosis
  • Polio a disease that resulted in many children and adults having to use leg and other braces.
  • Abasiophilia a psycho-sexual condition resulting in a fascination with orthopaedic braces and their users.

References

  1. ^ Braces and Splints for musculoskeletal conditions American Family Physician. 2010-02-09
  2. ^ Mayo Clinic. "knee braces overview" 2010-01-26.
  3. ^ Knee Braces information 2010-01-26
  4. ^ Anterior cruciate ligament braces 2010-01-26
  5. ^ Family Doctor. "What kinds of knee braces are there? What do they do?" 2010-01-26.
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