This innovative approach uses a special resin applied to the nail surface, helping to guide it back into a healthier shape over time that reduces any painful curvature along borders. It’s safe and effective for nearly everyone, including children and people living with diabetes.

What Exactly Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge or corner of your toenail starts to grow into the surrounding skin. This often causes pain, redness, and develops into swelling and sensitivity. If not treated early, the area can become infected – and in more severe cases, even affect the way you walk due to the discomfort.

Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails

A number of things can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails, including:

• Tight or poorly fitting shoes
• Genetics
• Naturally curved toenails
• Toe deformities (bunions, clawed toes)
• Improper trimming (cutting nails too short or rounding the corners)
• Trauma to the nail (stubbing your toe)
• Fungal nail infections

Signs to Watch For

You might have an ingrown toenail if you notice:

• Pain when wearing shoes (especially closed-toe styles)
• Discomfort while walking, running, or putting pressure on the toe
• Redness or swelling near the nail
• Pus, bleeding, or tenderness at the nail edge
• Thickened or callused skin around the nail

What is Toenail Bracing?

At BioPed Footcare Clinics, many of our Medical Footcare Clinicians—both Nurses and Chiropodists—are trained in the use of Onyfix®, a modern nail correction system designed to ease discomfort and encourage natural, healthy nail growth. Here’s how it works:

1. A flexible resin is applied across the top of the nail.
2. It’s cured with a safe LED light, securing it in place.
3. As the resin sets, it creates a slight lift on the edges of the nail—reducing pressure and pain.
4. The brace stays on as your nail grows, gently guiding it into a straighter shape over time.
5. Most patients feel relief almost instantly. In many cases, a single application is all that’s needed, though some may benefit from follow-up treatments.

Is Onyfix® Right for You?

If you’ve been dealing with ongoing toe pain or recurring ingrown nails, Onyfix® offers a conservative, effective option that doesn’t involve cutting or surgery. There’s little downtime from your routine activities, and it can be done quickly during a routine visit to one of our clinics offering Medical Footcare.

Whether you’re looking for long-term relief or just want to stop the pain from coming back, toenail bracing with Onyfix® might be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Contact your local BioPed clinic today to see if Onyfix® toenail bracing is right for you!

The post Ingrown Toenails affecting your day-to-day life? Consider toenail bracing for relief. appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

Myth 1: Braces Are Only for Athletes

The Truth: Knee braces are for anyone who wants to stay active or manage knee pain, regardless of age or activity level. Knee braces can help manage arthritis, allowing you to do the things you loved before knee pain. They can also be used to support the knee during physical activities, making you feel more confident with each stride.

Myth 2: Knee Braces Weaken Your Muscles

The Truth: A properly fitted knee brace supports your joint; it does not replace the muscles around it. The knee brace will help by lessening the physical demand and on your knee, allowing you to move more comfortably while you recover.

Myth 3: Knee Braces Are Always Uncomfortable

The Truth: Modern braces are designed in away to give maximum support, while still being comfortable. Comfort comes down to the fit and function of the brace. Off the shelf braces are readily available in many sizes and styles. However, a custom brace can provide an even better fit, and therefore comfort, allowing you to keep doing what you love.

Myth 4: A knee Brace Will Prevent All Injuries

The Truth: While braces can lower your risk of certain injuries, they are not a shield. No brace, even custom ones can guarantee you won’t get injured. However, they can provide, support, reduce strain and there for boost your confidence. Pairing a brace with properly fitted shoes meant for the activity can help you stay safe, but active.

Myth 5: You Only Need a Brace for Serious Injury

The Truth: You do not have to wait until you are in extreme pain. Knee braces can be used to help with minor joint stiffness to chronic conditions, like osteoarthritis. In fact, the sooner you address the misalignment or instability, the better the chances are of preventing further damage or injury.

Visit a BioPed Clinic Near You

It can be overwhelming at times to navigate the information on the internet about knee bracing. However, at BioPed, our goal is to help you find the best fit, so you can keep doing more of what you love!

The post The Top 5 Myths about Knee Bracing – Debunked! appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

So, How Do Braces Help?

Braces support the joint externally by:

• Limiting movements that could be aggravating
• Providing compression and stability
• Improving your joint alignment
• Reducing pressure on sore areas
• Boosting your body’s awareness of joint position (also called proprioception)

Using a brace on a joint that’s weak, overused, or unstable can lower the risk of new injuries and help prevent flare-ups of ongoing issues.

Knee Bracing

The knee plays an important role in supporting your body weight but is often vulnerable to injury during repetitive movement or because of aging and overuse. Braces can provide extra support and stability to help protect you from several common injuries, including:

ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Tears

• What causes it: Sudden stops, pivots, or direction changes
• Who’s at risk: Individuals with weak thigh muscles, or those who play sports like soccer and basketball
• How do braces help: By keeping your kneecap in place and limiting abrupt movements

 Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)

• What causes it: Poor joint position of the patella

• Who’s at risk: Individuals with muscle imbalances, overuse from running and jumping activities without proper warm up
• How do braces help: Stabilizes the patella, and reduces friction/ movement

Meniscus Tears

• What causes it: Twisting on a bent knee
• Who’s at risk: Individuals who play sports with sudden twisting movements, like tennis or football
• How do braces help: By limiting rotation and stabilizing the joint

Ankle Bracing

The ankle is especially prone to sprains and instability, particularly in active individuals and athletes. Some common ankle injuries that braces can help prevent include:

Lateral Ankle Sprains

• What causes it: Rolling the ankle outward
•  Who’s at risk: Individuals that hike or walk on uneven terrain; athletes in sports that involve jumping, such as volleyball or basketball
• How do braces help: Semi-rigid or lace-up braces reduce ankle inversion (rolling) and help to improve control

Chronic Ankle Instability

• What causes it: Weak muscles around the ankle
• Who’s at risk: Individuals with poor balance and those who’ve had previous ankle injuries
• How do braces help: It gives your ankle extra support and helps you stay more aware of it’s position

Achilles Tendon Strain

• What causes it: Sudden movements such as jumping or sprinting, or too much activity too quickly
• Who’s at risk: Individuals with tight and/or weak calf muscles
• How do braces help: Take the pressure off the ankle tendons and speed recovery through better circulation and repetitive massage

Does Bracing Really Help Prevent Injuries?

In many cases, yes! While a brace isn’t a magic solution, research shows that bracing can reduce the risk of re-injury, especially in individuals returning to sport or physical activity after previous trauma. The benefits of preventative bracing include:

• Lower injury rates in at-risk individuals
• Enhanced joint stability during unpredictable movements
• Support for weaker joints or overly flexible ligaments
• Increased confidence to stay active safely

However, bracing is most effective when paired with proper footwear, muscle strengthening, stretching and joint alignment strategies.

Why See a Canadian Certified Pedorthist?

Choosing the right brace isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why consulting a Canadian Certified Pedorthist is a smart step in protecting your joints. A Pedorthist can:

• Assess your movement, joint mechanics, and risk factors
• Recommend the most appropriate brace for your needs and activity level
• Ensure proper fit and comfort
• Work with you to combine bracing with other injury prevention tools (like custom orthotics or footwear)

Bracing isn’t just for recovery; it’s a proactive way to protect your knees, ankles, and overall mobility. If you’ve had a previous injury, play high-risk sports, or want extra support while staying active, the right brace can help keep you moving safely. Talk to a Canadian Certified Pedorthist to make sure you’re bracing the right way, for the right reason.

The post Brace Yourself! Bracing Can Help Prevent Injuries Before They Happen appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

Why Use a Knee Brace

Knee braces aren’t just for injuries. Knee braces can help to manage discomfort, prevent further injuries and reduce strain on the joint. If you have experienced any of the following, it maybe time to consider a knee brace:

• Instability when changing directions quickly for example, pivoting to catch the ball
• Pain during or after the activity
• Past injuries such as meniscus tears, or ACL injuries
• Overuse issues like runner’s knee

Types of Knee Braces

At BioPed, our clinicians will take the time to understand your movement patterns and pain before recommending a brace, because not all braces will work for everyone. Different pain and different activities may require different styles of braces. Here is how different braces can help with your unique pain.

1. Compression Sleeves: These knee braces provide mild compression around the knee, are less bulky and are used for mild pain, instability and swelling.
2. Hinged Braces: These braces are made unique to you and are excellent at addressing very specific challenges. They are protective for sports that have lateral movements, such as soccer or basketball.
3. Patellar Straps or Bands: These are small bands that fit right below the kneecap and apply light pressure to help reduce strain during repetitive motion. These are ideal braces for runners. They are slim and do not add bulk.
4. Custom Knee Braces: These tend to be used for serious injuries. a BioPed clinician would measure you, and a brace would be made for your exact measurements. The BioPed clinician would consider your body type, the activities you plan to do and the severity and location of injury to help make the ideal brace for you.

What Else Can You Do Besides Knee Bracing?

A knee brace will be quite helpful and can be paired with other strategies to improve your health.

Below are tips for helping you stay active:

• Warm Up: Prior to playing, take a few minutes to warm up your muscles and joints. Do some stretches. Never go into a game with cold muscles, you increase the chance of injury.
• Strengthen Your Muscles: Stability in joints starts with strong muscles and ligaments. Strength training or physiotherapy can help to build muscle around the joints to help stabilize them. For the knee that includes the hips, hamstrings, quadriceps and gluteal muscles.
• Recover Properly: Don’t skip the cool down. Also, remember ice, rest, and compression after a workout can help your knees recover faster.
• Check Your Shoes: Proper footwear is key to having the correct foot alignment. Old or unsupportive shoes do not support the foot, which in turn supports the rest of the leg.

Whether you are a weekend warrior or train regularly, knee pain doesn’t have to mean the end of your sports journey. With the right support, such as proper shoes and a knee brace, combined with smart training habits, you can stay active and do more of what you love. Don’t let your knees hold you back!

The post Staying In the Game with Less Discomfort: How Knee Braces Can Help appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

How Do Knee Braces Work?

Knee braces are designed to provide structural support and relieve pain through various mechanisms:

• Providing stability by limiting excessive movement that can strain the knee joint.
• Reducing strain on ligaments, tendons, and cartilage by distributing pressure evenly.
• Improving alignment to ensure proper tracking of the kneecap and reduce wear and tear.
• Absorbing impact to minimize stress on the knee during walking, running, or sports.
• Enhancing proprioception, improving the body’s awareness of knee positioning to prevent further injury.

There are different types of knee braces, including compression sleeves, hinged braces, and unloader braces, each designed for specific conditions and levels of support.

Over-the-Counter vs. Custom Knee Braces

Over-the-Counter Knee Braces

• Readily available at medical supply stores.
• More affordable than custom braces, typically ranging from $150 to $500.
• Designed for mild to moderate knee pain, instability, or general support.
• Provides basic compression and support but may not fit perfectly for all knee shapes and conditions.
• Best for short-term use or preventative support during physical activities.

Custom-Fit Knee Braces

• Tailored to your specific knee shape and medical condition.
• Offers a superior fit, ensuring maximum comfort and targeted support.
• More effective for managing serious injuries, chronic conditions, and post-surgical recovery.
• Higher cost, though often covered by insurance or certain government funding.
• Best for long-term use in cases of severe knee instability or structural damage.

Knee Support for Common Conditions

Knee braces can be beneficial for various knee conditions. Some common conditions and the type of brace that may work best include the following:

• Osteoarthritis: Custom unloader braces help redistribute weight away from damaged cartilage, reducing pain and slowing joint degeneration.
• Ligament Sprain/Tear (ACL, MCL, LCL, PCL): Hinged braces provide enhanced stability and restrict movement to protect healing ligaments.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): A patellar-tracking brace helps keep the kneecap aligned and reduces irritation from improper movement.
• Chondromalacia Patella (Runner’s Knee): Soft braces with patella cutouts reduce direct pressure on the kneecap, alleviating pain and discomfort.
• Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper’s Knee): Strap braces help offload stress from the patellar tendon, minimizing pain during activity.
• Generalized Knee Instability: Compression or hinged braces provide added support for weak or unstable knees, improving confidence in movement.

Preventing Knee Pain

To minimize the risk of knee injuries and chronic pain, consider these preventative measures:

• Use a supportive brace during high-impact activities if you have a history of knee issues.
• Wear proper footwear to maintain good alignment and reduce joint stress.
• Consider custom orthotics to provide additional support and correct foot posture.
• Stretch regularly to improve flexibility in the hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves.
• Strengthen leg muscles through targeted exercises to enhance knee stability.
• Avoid overuse by taking breaks during repetitive activities or sports.

Why See a Canadian Certified Pedorthist?

A Canadian Certified Pedorthist specializes in lower extremity biomechanics and can assess your knee pain to determine the most effective knee brace for your needs. They offer:

• Expert assessment to identify the root cause of knee pain and recommend the best solutions.
• Custom bracing options that ensure the best fit and maximum effectiveness.
• Footwear and orthotic recommendations to support lower limb health and reduce strain on the knees.
• Ongoing support and education to help prevent future injuries and manage chronic conditions.

Whether you need a simple OTC knee brace for mild discomfort or a custom-fitted brace for severe knee instability, a Pedorthist can guide you toward the right choice. Don’t let knee pain limit your daily activities—seek professional support today and take the first step towards better knee health!

The post Over the Counter vs Custom Fit – Which is the Best for Knee Bracing? appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

What Causes the Popping Sound?

Knee popping or crepitus, can happen for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it’s completely harmless, while other times, it may signal underlying issues. Here are some causes of knee popping:

• Cartilage Wear and Tear: Over time, the cartilage that is meant to cushion your joint can wear down, especially if you’ve had a past injury or live an active lifestyle. This can lead to more noticeable “popping” and, in some cases discomfort.
• Meniscus Injury: The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts to absorb shock in your knee. If it is damaged, you may hear popping along with experiencing pain, swelling, or feeling like your knee is locking up.
• Ligament or Tendon Movement: As you move your knee, tight tendons or ligaments may shift slightly over the bones creating a “popping” sound. This is often harmless and usually, there is no pain associated with this movement.
• Gas Bubbles: Your joints contain fluid that helps lubricate the joint. When gas bubbles form and then pop within the fluid, you will hear a popping sound. This type of popping is usually harmless and also painless.

Should I Be Worried About Knee Popping?

Knee popping on its own is not always a cause for concern. However, if you experience any of the following along with the popping sound it may be time to consult a healthcare professional.

• Swelling or pain
• Locking or catching when moving
• Difficulty walking or bending your knee
• Instability or giving away

These symptoms could indicate more serious issues like a ligament/tendon injury, meniscus tear or arthritis.

How Can a Knee Brace Help?

While bracing won’t stop the popping sound, it can help with:

• Stability: If your knee feels weak, or prone to give away, a brace can provide extra support to keep it steady.
• Injury Prevention: For those who have experienced previous knee injuries, a brace can offer added protection during activities, which can reduce the risk of re-injury.
• Pain Relief: Certain braces help to offload pressure from specific areas of the knee, which can reduce discomfort caused by arthritis or overuse.

Tips to Keep Your Knees Happy

Along with using a knee brace, here are some simple things you can do to keep your knees happy and keep you doing more in life:

1. Maintain a healthy weight: Extra weight can put additional stress on your knees. Even a small weight change can have a big impact.
2. Warm-Up Before Activities: Taking a few minutes to stretch and warm up the muscles before exercise can help protect your knees from injury.
3. Strengthen Your Muscles: Strong muscles around the knees help to support the joint and reduce strain.
4. Listen to Your Body: If your knees are telling you to slow down, take a break. Rest is just as important as the activity.
5. Consider Custom Orthotics: Sometimes, knee pain is directly linked to foot alignment. A BioPed clinician can assess if custom orthotics can improve your alignment and reduce knee strain.

Visit a Clinic Today

If knee popping is accompanied by pain, swelling, or instability, do not ignore it! Your knees are designed to move. Taking steps to care for your knees today can help you do more in life tomorrow.

The post Is Your Knee Popping? Here’s What It Means and How to Find Relief appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

Understanding Knee Pain

Knee pain is the discomfort or pain around or in your knee joint. The knee is the biggest joint you have in your body. It helps to support and absorb the weight of your upper body when you move. Knee pain can fluctuate throughout the day or from day-to-day depending on your activity level. Common causes of knee pain are:

• Injuries (old or new): sprains, tears in ligaments/meniscus, or dislocations
• Arthritis: inflammation, swelling and stiffness in the joint
• Overuse: tendinitis, bursitis, or patellofemoral pain (runner’s knee)

Regardless of the cause, knee pain can make you feel achy, stiff and unstable on your feet. The good news? There are solutions that can help you feel more supported.

How Bracing Can Help

One of the most effective ways to manage knee pain is to use a knee brace. Knee braces are designed to provide extra support for the weakened or injured knee, by reducing pressure on the painful areas and providing stability. They provide support by keeping the correct alignment of the knee. There are many different styles, some use rigid materials, others use soft materials with compression, so finding the right one for your specific needs is key. This is where a BioPed clinician can really make a difference. BioPed clinicians are specialist in the lower limbs, and can assess your knee pain, and recommend the best brace for your unique situation.

Tips For Helping with Knee Pain

In addition to bracing, here are some practical tips you can use to manage your knee pain at home:

1. The R.I.C.E Method: this method should be used immediately after injury/trauma
   1. Rest: Minimize physical activity to allow for healing.
   2. Ice: apply ice to the injury for about 15–20-minutes every hour the first day of injury (never apply ice directly to the skin, always have a barrier between the ice and the skin).
   3. Compression: compression wraps help to reduce knee swelling to the knee.
   4. Elevation: prop up your leg on some pillows and keep it at a height above your heart to help minimize swelling.
2. Stay Active: gentle activities such as walking, biking or swimming can keep your joints moving while not putting stress on them
3. Strengthen the Tendons and Muscles: focusing on strengthening the muscles and tendons around the knee can significantly reduce the pain you feel in your knee
4. Watch Your Weight: extra weight adds pressure to your knees. Maintaining a healthy weight can relieve strain and reduce pain over time.
5. Custom Orthotics: sometimes knee pain can be caused by poor foot alignment, and orthotics can help reduce knee pain placing the foot in a neutral position.

Find a Clinic Near You

Remember, knee pain does not have to keep you on the sidelines. With the correct brace, personalized support from a BioPed clinician, and some simple at-home techniques, you can manage your knee pain and get back to doing more of what you love!

The post Managing Knee Pain with Bracing appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

What is an ACL Injury?

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the key ligaments in your knee. It helps stabilize the joint, especially during activities that involve sudden stops or changes in direction, such as jumping, pivoting, or running.

ACL injuries typically occur when the knee twists awkwardly or is subjected to high force, often during sports. Common signs and symptoms include:

• A loud “pop” in the knee at the time of injury
• Intense pain and inability to continue activity
• Rapid swelling
• Loss of full range of motion
• Instability or “giving way” of the knee

Non-Surgical Treatment for ACL Injuries

While surgery is sometimes required, non-surgical options can effectively manage an ACL injury, especially if it’s a partial tear or if your lifestyle is not as physically demanding. Below are some non-surgical treatments that can help you recover:

Knee Bracing

• Provides extra support to the injured knee by stabilizing it during movement.
• Prevents further damage and helps in pain management.
• Braces are often used during physical therapy or daily activities to prevent the knee from moving in harmful ways.

Physical Therapy

• Strengthens the muscles around the knee, improving stability.
• Focuses on regaining range of motion, building flexibility, and enhancing coordination.
• Tailored exercises help reduce the risk of reinjury and restore knee function.

Custom Foot Orthotics

• These devices improve alignment and reduce stress on the knee during walking or running.
• Help to distribute weight evenly, decreasing strain on the injured ACL.
• Especially helpful in correcting any foot mechanics issues that could lead to increased knee problems.

Pain Management

• Anti-inflammatory medications can reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Ice and/or heat therapy can also be beneficial in reducing pain and inflammation.

Preventing Reinjury

Once your ACL has healed, it’s essential to prevent further injuries. Reinjury is common, especially in athletes or those with an active lifestyle. Some ways to protect your knee include:

Knee Bracing for Stability

• Even after recovery, wearing a knee brace during sports or strenuous activities can help protect the ACL from excessive strain.

Proper Footwear

• Shoes with good arch support and cushioning can reduce the impact on your knees.
• Athletic footwear should be appropriate for your specific sport or activity.

Custom Orthotics

• Correct biomechanical issues that could lead to reinjury.
• Offer extra support for your feet, which can positively affect your knee alignment and reduce stress on the ACL.

Physiotherapy

• Regular exercises to maintain muscle strength around the knee.
• Stretching routines to keep your ligaments and tendons flexible.

Seeing a Canadian Certified Pedorthist

• A Pedorthist specializes in the biomechanics of feet and lower limbs, and they can design custom orthotics to reduce stress on your knee.
• They can also recommend the best footwear and knee braces for your specific needs.
• By working with a pedorthist, you can develop a personalized treatment plan to support your ACL recovery and prevent reinjury.

An ACL injury doesn’t always mean surgery. With proper treatment and support, many people recover without going under the knife. Knee bracing, physical therapy, and custom foot orthotics are just a few options that can help you heal. To ensure you have the best recovery plan, it’s always wise to consult a Canadian Certified Pedorthist, who can guide you toward better knee health and reduce the risk of future injury.

The post Pain, Performance, Prevention – Overcoming ACL issues without surgery appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is an umbrella term for conditions that affect the joints. The most common form of arthritis in the knee is osteoarthritis, where the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones gradually wears away, causing pain and decreased movement. Another form of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack the joint lining, leading to inflammation.

Arthritis in the knee can develop gradually or suddenly, and while age is a significant risk factor, it’s not the only one. Genetics, previous injuries, obesity, repetitive stress on the knee joint, and your overall biomechanics can also contribute to its development.

Managing Knee Arthritis: Bracing for Support

One key component in managing knee arthritis is the use of knee braces. A knee brace helps stabilize the joint, reduce pain, and improve function. The goal of bracing an arthritic knee is to reduce the load on the affected part of the knee, alleviating pain and helping you maintain an active lifestyle.

There are different types of knee braces available:

• Off-the-Shelf Knee Braces: These are pre-made and available in various sizes. They provide general support and are often used for mild to moderate arthritis. Off-the-shelf braces are cost-effective but may not offer the precise fit or support needed for more severe arthritis cases.
• Custom Knee Braces: These are tailored to fit your knee’s exact measurements. Custom braces offer higher support and are recommended for moderate to severe arthritis. While more expensive, they provide better comfort and effectiveness.

Choosing between off-the-shelf or custom knee braces depends on the severity of your arthritis and your daily activities. Off-the-shelf braces may suit those with mild symptoms or who need temporary support, while custom braces are better for long-term management of more severe arthritis.

Custom Foot Orthotics: Supporting the Knee from the Ground Up

In addition to knee bracing, custom foot orthotics play a crucial role in managing knee arthritis. Orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that help correct foot alignment, which can significantly impact your knees. When your feet are properly aligned, it reduces abnormal stress on the knee joint, alleviating pain and preventing further damage.

Custom foot orthotics are tailored to your specific needs. By distributing weight more evenly and improving foot mechanics, orthotics can help reduce joint pain and improve mobility. When combined with a knee brace, orthotics create a comprehensive approach to managing knee arthritis by addressing both joint stability and foot alignment.

Compression Garments: Relieving Swelling and Improving Circulation

Compression garments, such as knee sleeves or stockings, can also help manage knee arthritis. These garments apply gentle pressure to the affected area, reducing swelling and improving blood flow. While they don’t provide the structural support of a knee brace, compression garments can complement other treatments by helping manage symptoms and providing additional comfort.

The Role of a Canadian Certified Pedorthist

When dealing with knee arthritis, it’s important to have a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. A Canadian Certified Pedorthist is a specialist in lower limb mechanics and can help you develop a personalized plan that includes knee bracing, custom foot orthotics, and other treatments. They have the expertise to assess your condition, recommend the right products, and ensure proper fit and function, which is crucial for effective management of knee arthritis.

Knee arthritis can be painful and limiting, but with the right tools and support, you can manage your symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle. At BioPed, your Canadian Certified Pedorthists understand the role of braces, custom foot orthotics, and compression garments as valuable components of a comprehensive treatment plan. Visit us today to ensure your plan is tailored to your needs, helping you find relief and stay on your feet.

The post The Arthritic Knee – Can a Brace Help? appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

How Does Bracing Work?

No matter if you are playing soccer, basketball, running, or hiking, the sudden burst of activity can stress your body, especially if you spend most of your time in a sedentary position, such as an office desk job, or working from home. This abrupt transition to high intensity activity can often lead to conditions like sprains, strains, and overuse injuries. Bracing can provide support and stability to your joints and muscles, reducing the risk of injury and helping you to manage existing conditions. So how does bracing work? Bracing works because of the combination of rigid and soft materials working together. The soft material can provide some mild compression, reducing inflammation and fluid accumulation.  They offset pressure and support mobility, while the rigid materials control movement of the joints and provide protection. Bracing helps to maintain the proper joint alignment, promoting stability of the joint and controlled movement. Braces can be used to improve range of motion, prevent instability, avoid hyperextension, and enhance mobility in degenerative diseases like arthritis.

Tips for Choosing and Using a Brace

1. Identify your needs: determine what area of your body would benefit from the use of support and what type of activities you will be doing. This will help you chose the right type of brace. For example, if you are finding your knee swells after a long run, a sleeve brace may be beneficial to help reduce swelling.
2. Proper fit: ensure the brace fits well. It should be snug but not too tight where it is uncomfortable. A poorly fitting brace can do more harm than good.
3. Consistency: wearing the brace during each activity will provide the maximum benefit. Put the brace on before you play and wear it until you finish, even if you are not feeling achy when you start. The idea is to keep you from getting injured.
4. Combine with other strategies: bracing is only one component in the prevention and management of injury. Stretching and strengthening exercises along with proper footwear are all apart of the prevention and management of injury strategy and should be incorporated into your daily routine. Warm-up and cool downs are helping to prepare your muscles and joints for exercise and aids in recovery afterwards. Listening to your body and not pushing through pain. If you are experiencing pain and discomfort, take a break and assess the situation. It is better to rest and recover than risk a more severe injury. Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining joint and muscle health. Make sure you are drinking enough water before, during and after the activity.

While over-the-counter braces can be helpful, sometimes you need a professional to guide you to ensure you are using the correct brace for your specific needs. This is where BioPed Clinicians can be invaluable. They can assess your condition, consider your activity level, and recommend the best bracing option for you. They will be able to address the underlying biomechanical issues contributing to your discomfort.

At BioPed, we are dedicated to helping you do more in life. Whether you need a brace, footwear, custom orthotics, compression socks or expert advise, we are here to support you. Our goal is to help you stay active and enjoy your activities to the fullest, without being sidelined by injuries. Remember, the right brace can make a significant difference in your performance and comfort. Don’t let pain or fear of injury hold you back, embrace the weekend warrior in you, and let us help you stay in the game!

The post Weekend athlete? Consider bracing to get you through the game appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.