Supportive devices that may help to reduce the pain from osteoarthritis of the knee include canes, orthotics (shoe inserts), and knee braces.
Canes
The use of a cane reduces the amount of weight placed on the knee joint while walking thereby decreasing knee pain. The cane should be held in the hand opposite to the affected knee. If the pain is in the left knee, the cane should be held in the right hand.
Knee Braces
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Orthotics (Shoe Inserts)
For people with poor knee alignment (bowlegged or knock kneed) shoe orthotics may be a good treatment option. A shoe orthotic may help change the alignment of the knee in order to reduce stress on the joint. There are various types of shoe orthotics available. They can be custom made or purchased at a pharmacy or shoe store. Doctors or physiotherapists who deal with osteoarthritis of the knee will be able to tell you if a supportive device or a shoe orthotic is likely improve symptoms.
To read more about osteoarthritis of the knee please visit the links section. Links have been provided to other websites as well as online medical journals. Knee injury topics can also be accessed.