The Osteoarthritis and Lower Extremity Bracing Program

M Health Fairview Rehab Services Osteoarthritis and Lower Extremity Bracing Program provides specialty rehabilitation and bracing solutions for those struggling with pain associated with hip and knee osteoarthritis and patellofemoral conditions.

This unique physical therapy experience provides you the opportunity to trial unloader and patellofemoral braces during the physical therapy session. In addition to this bracing experience, our expert physical therapists will work with you to develop a comprehensive exercise program to help you increase strength, improve function, and return to the activities that mean the most to you, with less pain.

During your visit, the physical therapist will:

• Perform an exam on your painful joint
• Discuss bracing and treatment options for your pain
• Assist you with trialing a brace, if appropriate for your condition
• Perform guided exercises and activities while wearing the brace to ensure comfort and effectiveness
• Help you schedule a separate visit with our orthotic and prosthetics team (or DME distributor of your choice) for final fitting and distribution of brace, if you benefitted from the brace.

You could benefit from this program if:

• You want to reduce knee and hip pain and increase strength
• Your physical therapy progress has been limited due to pain
• You have weight loss goals limited by hip and knee pain
• You want to prepare for, delay or avoid surgery.
• You want to return to the activities you love.
• You have other specific knee conditions such as tibial plateau fractures or articular cartilage defects

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip or knee can occur naturally with aging and often can develop over time following an injury to the lower extremity. OA occurs when the cartilage that creates a smooth gliding surface between your bones wears down and the surfaces of the bones can rub together, causing pain and discomfort.

What is unloader bracing:

Unloader braces reduce pressure between joint surfaces. This results in an increase in the space between the worn-down joint surfaces, which reduces compressive forces on the joint. They also add stability to your leg, which can reduce pain, increase activity tolerance, and help you strengthen the muscles around the knee and hip. 

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