Knee pain caused by osteoarthritis can severely impact daily life, limiting mobility and making even simple activities challenging.

For individuals who have tried various treatments without success, an unloader knee brace may provide significant relief.

This success story highlights how one patient, a former athlete and current health professional regained his mobility and quality of life with the help of Orthotics Plus and the Ossur – Unloader One Knee Brace.

Background

Our patient is a man in his early forties, who sustained a traumatic knee injury due to his background as an athlete.

Now working as a personal trainer, he developed osteoarthritis, which significantly affected his ability to stay active. Everyday activities such as exercising, playing with his children, and even walking were painful, impacting his enjoyment of everyday life.

Despite trying multiple treatments—including weight management, structured exercise, and injections—his pain persisted.

He also had the meaningful goal of international travel!

Choosing Between Knee Brace Options

When he visited Orthotics Plus, his primary requirement was unloading rather than stabilisation.

Given the stability of his knee, the Unloader Knee Brace was recommended as an effective and low-risk solution. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing peace of mind over the investment.

The brace was fitted on the same day, and the patient reported immediate pain relief.

Within two weeks, a follow-up appointment was conducted to fine-tune the fit, helping with long-term comfort and effectiveness. Two years later, the client continues to use the brace full-time, experiencing minimal pain flare-ups and maintaining a wonderful quality of life!

Why the Ossur Unloader Knee Brace?

Osteoarthritis is a common condition, often leading to various knee surgeries, through to replacements.

At Orthotics Plus, we have used many ‘offloading’ types of braces. The Ossur Unloader Knee Brace stands out because:

  • It stays securely in place and provides the most effective unloading.
  • It outperforms rigid braces, which require a precise fit and can be uncomfortable.
  • It provides more Unloading force than other braces we have tried due to the unique DFS system
  • Compared to alternatives, our patients have reported more comfort and stability.
  • Patients love the BOA dial adjustments to fine tune the unloading force and fit
  • Other braces offer stability but lack the necessary force system for true compartment unloading.
  • Ossur provide a no questions asked 30 day money back guarantee

Adjusting the Brace for Maximum Output

To ensure the brace maintained its effectiveness, adjustments were made during the initial weeks.

The straps were tightened at the two-to-four-week review period, compensating for natural stretching over time and as the patient learned to tolerate the force more.

Periodic check-ins at six months or a year helped maintain an appropriate fit.

Goal Oriented Outcomes

Thanks to the Unloader Knee Brace, the patient regained the ability to enjoy his favourite activities. He successfully:

  • Increased his physical activity, allowing him to do both leisurely and fun physical activities with his family
  • Built strength in his leg, which helped reduce pain
  • Traveled internationally and continued his fitness journey pain-free.

Patient Feedback

In a follow-up, the patient shared his experience:

“The brace is amazing. I get little bits of pain from time to time, mainly if I’ve done too much or just found a weird angle, but 99% of the time, I’m completely pain-free.”

The unloader brace also contributed to reducing inflammation and knee swelling, allowing his muscles to regain strength and stabilise the knee further. Osteoarthritis affects the entire joint, not just cartilage. By reducing load through the cartilage, we can reduce swelling and by reducing swelling muscle strength returns.

With increased muscle strength we get greater knee stability and joint health.

This is what we call a positive feedback loop for joint health.

Revisions of the Product

The Rebound Unloader Knee Brace has undergone multiple revisions over the past 20 years.

While its core function remains the same, the biggest improvements have been in weight reduction and comfort.

Newer versions are lighter and more aesthetically refined, enhancing user experience without compromising effectiveness.

This success story highlights how the right orthotic solution can dramatically improve quality of life. For those suffering from osteoarthritis-related knee pain, consider booking an appointment at an Orthotics Plus clinic near you.