What is Osteoarthritis (OA)
According to the Arthritis Society (Canada), 20% of all Canadians suffer from arthritis. It affects about one in 10 Canadian adults. OA can affect all ages but it is most common in people over the age of 45. There is currently no cure for Osteoarthritis, however, there are many options that can help reduce your risk, relieve pain and improve function.
Causes of Osteoarthritis
Between the two bones that make up the knee joint is a cushioned substance known as cartilage. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions your joints breaks down, causing bones to rub together and wear down. OA commonly affects joints in the knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, ankles and hands. But since hip and knee joints carry a large portion of weight, they are more prone to Osteoarthritis.
Risk factors for Osteoarthritis include:
- Obesity
- Muscle weakness
- Poor joint alignment, such as bowed legs or flat feet
- Injury/Overuse of the joint
- Reduced bone density
Signs & Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis can often start out mild, with minor joint stiffness or discomfort that is helped with periods of rest. But it can progress to chronic, daily pain. As cartilage wears away, the following symptoms can develop:
- Pain or tenderness
- Morning stiffness
- Swelling
- knee “giving way” sensations
Activities such as walking, climbing stairs, carrying heavy objects or playing sports may become challenging. With the use of custom orthotics and low-profile knee braces, many individuals reduce their symptoms and increase their activity levels
Osteoarthritis Pain-Relief Options
Arthritic knee braces work to shift weight away from the painful areas where cartilage has worn away. They can also help with stability for those who experience the feeling that their knees are “giving way”.
Research has shown bracing to reduce pain by up to 48% and improve your ability to function by up to 72%.
BioPed offers stable footwear that provide an excellent foundation of support for your custom-made orthotics. This footwear provides a wide and stable base to properly support knee movement and reduce pressure. They come in the form of fashionable sandals, athletic and casual footwear and even slippers.
Flat or high arched feet along with “knocked-kneed” or bowed legs can put more pressure on the knee. Custom-made orthotics can also help to redistribute body weight to reduce this pressure and alleviate pain.
Why Choose BioPed When You Experience Osteoarthritis
BioPed Clinicians are well-trained and experienced in casting, manufacturing, fitting, and modification of many types of custom-made orthotics. BioPed orthotics are made specifically, not just for your condition, but your lifestyle and footwear needs as well. Our clinical staff are also well-studied and trained in the fitting of knee braces.
Contact us today to request an appointment with a BioPed Clinician.