Knee supports for arthritis, sometimes known as knee braces, are a useful way to reduce pain and assist mobility.
If pain is stopping you from doing the things you love, it’s essential that you find ways to manage it.
The range of ergonomic designs available online ensure you’ll find a knee support that suits your needs.
This article will cover everything you need to know about knee supports for arthritis, including the best buys.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase we will earn a small commission.
Here’s a summary of what we’ll cover:
- Whatever type of arthritis you have, your knees are likely to be affected at some point.
- Wearing knee supports for arthritis is one way to manage your pain and stop yourself from over using the affected joints.
- Whether it’s a hinged or compression knee support, wearing it will help keep everything in place and encourage blood flow to the area.
- Just wearing a knee support can also remind you to move in a way that doesn’t strain your joints.
Why use a knee brace?
Not everyone is comfortable or able to take painkillers to manage their arthritis pain.
So they may find some comfort in wearing a knee brace to provide stability to their joints.
While different types are suitable for different complaints, a knee support for arthritis can remind you to move mindfully and not strain.
So as well as having a physical impact, the psychological effects can be useful to recovery and pain reduction.
How can knee supports for arthritis help?
If you suffer from pain in your knees due to arthritis or other damage to your knee, a support can:
- Provide physical stability and support
- Help with pain relief
- Promote recovery
- Improve circulation
- Reduce swelling
- Increase confidence in the wearer
- Remind you to be careful when moving your knee
What causes arthritis pain?
There are different types of arthritis, all of which cause pain and inflammation in joints such as the knees.
Depending on the type of arthritis you’re diagnosed with, your pain can be caused by different events.
But whether due to wear and tear or an immune response, the joints affected aren’t working as smoothly as they should.
Meaning that it can be painful to move them, for reasons such as lack of lubrication or increased inflammation.
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What are the types of knee supports for arthritis?
Here’s a quick overview of the different types of knee supports available to buy right now.
Hinged knee braces
A hinged knee brace works by reducing the range of motion in your knee whilst still allowing the joint to move comfortably.
It consists of a compression sleeve, but also has a short hinge made of rubber or metal at the side.
The hinge moves with the flexion of the knee to support it during everyday activities and movement.
Compression brace
Compression knee supports for arthritis are a simple way to reduce knee pain and support the joint to prevent further injury.
A compression sleeve is a tight fitting soft tube that is worn around the knee and can be easily worn under clothing.
This type of knee support for arthritis is good for improving circulation and providing gentle support.
Neoprene brace
A neoprene brace with a cutout for the kneecap can help keep the bone in place and ease pain caused by softness of cartilage under the kneecap.
While a neoprene sleeve provides compression and warmth which can reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Unloader brace
An unloader brace is a longer and more rigid hinged brace which can help people with medical knee arthritis.
While you can buy standard unloader braces online, it’s best to get one made custom to suit your knee shape and needs.
Knee supports for arthritis: The best buys
Here’s our overview of the very best knee supports available to buy online.
Adjustable Compression Knee Patella Tendon Support Brace
This knee support combines compression and hinged designs to provide a full spectrum of support for damaged knees.
The one size design is suitable for both men and women as it can be adjusted to any size or shape.
Thanks to highly adjustable straps that can be attached to almost any exterior point on the support.
It also has a reinforced stabiliser ring to keep the kneecap in a safe position during movement.
Price: £11.99
What the reviews say:
‘It provides great support for everyday use and helps whilst trying to enjoy things I used to be able to do.’
‘The velcro is strong and secure, gives good support and isn’t too uncomfortable or invasive under clothes.’
Knee Brace with Side Stabilizers & Patella Gel Pads for Knee Support
This dual spring stabilising brace offers sturdy support for damaged knees as a result of injury or arthritis.
It is suitable for daily wear or during sports and activities where extra protection is needed to help you feel confident and mobile.
The springs absorb shock on impact as your knees hit the ground, helping to relieve pressure on your joints.
This design uses a circular silicone gel pad around the patella for increased comfort and support during movement of the knee.
Price: £17.99
What the reviews say:
‘I have a big knee problem and this product has just made me more stable and happier with walking.’
‘I have arthritis in my knee, and this product is superb as it allows me to walk much more comfortably. As it is breathable, it stays dry, it is easy to put on, and stays in place. I would certainly recommend this product.’
Neoprene Knee Support with Open Patella
This lightweight neoprene knee brace helps relieve knee pain and promotes blood circulation to muscles and tendons.
The orthopaedic design includes four metal springs, which can protect and support the knees during movement, from daily activity to exercise.
Plus, three adjustable straps can be attached to almost any exterior point providing ultimate stability and comfort for the wearer.
Price: £10.99
What the reviews say:
‘The neoprene material used in the knee support is effective in providing both stability and flexibility. It offers sufficient support for the knee joint, helping to alleviate pain and reduce the risk of further injury.’
‘They are a really good product. I have arthritis in both knees and I have been struggling with joint pain for a while. They really do work.’
Knee Compression Sleeve Support for Men Women with Patella Gel Pads & Side Stabilizers
This compression knee support features an anatomically contoured sleeve with patella gel pads surrounding the kneecap.
It also uses double-sided metal spring stabilisers that fit tightly with your knee joint to provide additional side support and maintain joint stability.
The soft elastic fabric is soft and comfortable using 3D knitting to provide extra reinforcement without reducing comfort.
It also comes in a selection of colours and sizes to choose from.
Price £20.99
What the reviews say:
‘It is very supportive due to the semi-rigid reinforcement strips at the side, a doughnut shape for round the knee cap and a strong neoprene material.’
‘I have to say the brace really helped, in fact after a week I ordered another one is one to wear – I am so grateful I bought it’
Gemschest 2 Pack Knee Support – Knee Compression Sleeves
This excellent 2 pack of compression sleeves is an affordable way to protect your knees and manage daily wear and tear.
The 4-way stretch fabric means the sleeves are breathable and lightweight yet still put stable pressure across your knee joint.
This disperses the pressure on the knee, improving blood circulation and protecting the knee from injury.
Wearing it on a daily basis allows you to manage pain caused by arthritis and help you move in a way that prevents unnecessary strain.
Price: £9.99
What the reviews say:
‘I suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis, it holds my knees in place and I feel much safer with them on. They have caused me no additional swelling in the leg or issues with cutting off any circulation.’
‘Pleasantly pleased with his item as it was snug fitting, gave good support and was comfortable to wear during walking, exercising and general everyday activities.’
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