Custom Knee Braces are a helpful tool in many knee injuries and degenerative conditions. If you’ve been dealing with knee pain, then you know how frustrating and life altering it can be. You want to play sports, you want to take the stairs, you need to go get groceries, but all of these things are difficult because of your knees. In this blog, we’ll discuss who benefits from custom knee braces and how they differ from off the shelf braces (pre-made).
What is unique about a custom knee brace?
Unlike a standard brace which is made to predetermined measurements, a custom brace is made especially for you. One of our Physiotherapist will take precise measurements of different parts of your knee to fit it perfectly to your shape, providing support where you need it the most. There are also different types of custom braces, and your health care provider can help you determine which one suits you best, depending on your current situation.
Who uses custom knee braces?
These braces are extremely sturdy and provide lots of stability, support, and can restore function. They are used in several different areas mainly:
- Post-surgery such as meniscal repairs
- Relieving pain from osteoarthritis (OA)
- Extra support during sports or physical tasks
- Protection while awaiting surgery
- Stabilizing the knee after a ligament tear (ACL, MCL, PCL, LCL)
- Delay a total knee replacement surgery
For example, in OA there is often one sided pain from the joint surface wear. A special brace type called an unloader is specifically designed to shift pressure away from the affected side of the joint. In some cases, surgery may be inappropriate or more risky than desired for a patient, a brace can help them return to their activities, even sports, after a severe injury.
How do I know if I need a custom knee brace?
Most minor strains do not need custom bracing and can benefit from off the shelf versions. Working with a health care expert like a Physiotherapist during your injury can help you determine what is right for you. Some clinical signs that they may look for include:
- Instability: Including buckling, giving way or feeling like the joint can’t support you
- Have been diagnosed with knee OA, especially if severe
- Ligamentous laxity
- Limited by pain, weakness in activities of daily life or sport
- Awaiting a knee replacement, or want an alternative
- Recent surgery that needs protection
These are just a few of many things they will look at. Our Physiotherapists are trained to assess and take each individual’s unique factors into account.
Will my insurance cover it? What is the process
In Ontario, some extended health care (EHC) plans will provide coverage for medical equipment including custom knee braces. Since each plan is different, you will have to contact your provider to ask for the coverage available, oftentimes they will be given in a % amount. Additionally, most insurances will also request a physician prescription.
On the clinic side, we will arrange an assessment with a trained Physiotherapist provider to assess how you’re moving, your symptoms, your fitness level, and goals to determine which type of brace would suit you best. Then, they will take specific measurements of your leg which they will submit to the brace manufacturers. After your brace has been made, they will ship it to the clinic and we will call you to let you know. Your physiotherapist will then have you wear it in clinic and perform some movements to ensure it fits well and comfortably. Any brace adjustments needed in the future can be done free of charge for you!
Our clinic will provide you with an invoice with all information necessary needed to submit to the insurers and receive reimbursement. While we are unable to do direct billing for medical equipment, rest assured that your Physiotherapy and Massage Therapy appointments can be!
Looking for more information about braces or knee pain?
Look for PhysioNow! We are one of the west GTA’s most trusted Physiotherapists, serving the area for over 20 years. We are happy to answer any inquiries and help you get started in the process. You can find us at 10 locations across Burlington, Oakville, Mississagua and Etobicoke! Don’t let your knee pain stop you anymore, book your first assessment and treatment with PhysioNow today!
