Knee pain should not stop you from doing the things you love. Today we’ll chat knee bracing and how to make the decision on what to choose… Custom or OTC.
With bracing there are many different types and styles of braces but most work to give support and stability to the knee and limit motion in certain directions based on the injury you have. If the knee is properly supported and stable, you will feel more confident doing all of the things that you love to do.
So, how do you choose?
The biggest difference is fit. With most over-the-counter knee braces, there is usually 2-3 measurements taken into consideration with sizing. With custom braces, typically there are many measurements and factors taken into consideration, concluding with a 3D scan or cast of the joint and surrounding leg. This level of precision is best, as custom braces will tend to hug the contours of your leg, leading to less slippage and increased effectiveness. No matter how great the brace, you won’t wear a brace that is not comfortable. When looking for a brace, look for the best combination of comfort, fit and function. This will make getting back into daily activities faster.
Severity of Injury
The more severe the injury, the more robust a brace must be. And the more important it is that it fits precisely. A mild/ low grade sprain often requires only a fabric based low profile brace, whereas with a grade 3/severe injury, you might want to consider a rigid shell brace. As the injury or discomfort gets more severe, you will want to lean towards choosing a custom brace to offload the best and get the job done effectively.
Level of Activity
For someone who leisurely walks and isn’t involved in high intensity sport often, maximal protection and support is not always necessary. Especially if the injury is not severe, an over-the-counter brace would work to give general support to the knee.
Cost
Cost will always be a factor when deciding on whether you will go with an OTC or a custom brace. Most OTC braces range anywhere from $100 to $500, and a custom brace can cost upwards of $1500. The great news is that a lot of insurance providers will have coverage for custom bracing. It’s a good idea to check your insurance when deciding on a brace.
Come See Us!
If you’re suffering from a knee injury or anything else lower limb related, please book an appointment today! At BioPed Footcare, whether its bracing, orthotics, or footwear, we are here for you. With our on-site lab there is nothing we can’t do! Meet with one of BioPed’s lower limb clinicians to see how you can keep your knees and lower body healthy!
