Patella Tracking Brace
Patella tracking issues typically involve lateral tracking or maltracking of the patella, where it shifts slightly too far to either side within the patellofemoral groove.
This misalignment can lead to discomfort as the surfaces of the patella and femur rub against each other.
Patella tracking braces are designed to address this issue by exerting a gentle force on the outer side of the patella, guiding it back into proper alignment. This adjustment helps to minimise friction and alleviate pressure.
Additionally, these braces can offer physical support and psychological support- reducing anxiety- especially in individuals with a history of knee dislocations, such as lateral patella dislocations, providing a sense of stability and reassurance.
Book Knee Assessment Call (03) 9077 6414
Patella Tracking Braces Available at Orthotics Plus
Patella Tracking Brace is a general term, meaning that many different brands offer their version of this type of brace. At Orthotics Plus, we carry two options that we feel best suit this presentation of patient:
- Ottobock Patella Tracking Brace: Characterised by its low profile
- Ossur Formfit Tracker: Contains a hinge and a well-designed silicone buttress that is positioned on the kneecap to provide compressive support.
The patella’s unique shape, with thinness in it’s lateral profile and the high forces it encounter, complicates efforts to prevent it from tracking incorrectly or to control its movement effectively, given the limited gripping surfaces available.
Many of the online options, or cheaper braces, are simply wrap-around designs that fail to provide adequate support and control, which is another reason why we recommend the above options.
It should be acknowledged that all braces do have limitations, however, a small degree of correction can make a world of difference and we regularly see people get excellent pain relief using these items.
Who Are Patella Tracking Braces Suitable For?
Patella tracking braces serve different purposes depending on the nature of the injury.
- Patella tracking braces are suitable for acute injuries such as subluxation or dislocation.
- Duration of wear may vary depending on individual needs; some may wear them briefly for security against recurring injuries.
- For chronic conditions like lateral tracking issues due to biomechanical factors, muscle tightness, weakness, or structural alignment, braces may be worn over an extended period.
- Braces can be integrated into rehabilitation and Physiotherapy efforts to address underlying biomechanical issues and improve over time with consistent use and targeted treatment.
Reasons to Combine Foot Orthotics with Knee Braces
Custom foot orthotics have been demonstrated to effectively assist patients dealing with lateral tracking issues or patella tracking issues by correcting foot posture.
This correction helps reduce tibial internal rotation, which in turn adjusts the line of pull of the patella.
Our Orthotists assess the knee and lower limb biomechanics through medical history, physical examination, gait analysis, foot assessment, and pressure mapping. Custom orthotics are then designed to address any misalignments or instabilities identified.
Understanding Knee Assessments and Prescription of a Patella Tracking Brace
Assessment
During a knee assessment, our clinician gathers information about the patient’s condition, whether it’s an acute injury or a chronic issue. For acute injuries like a patella dislocation, the patient’s recent mechanism of injury provides a clear indicator. They might report the incident, pain levels, and mobility limitations, such as using crutches or limping.
In cases of chronic issues without a referral, a comprehensive physical assessment and history are conducted to pinpoint the problem. This involves identifying specific areas of pain and assessing knee biomechanics to determine if the issue involves the patella, medial or lateral compartments, or tracking problems.
Prescription
Once the diagnosis is made, our Orthotist selects the appropriate patella tracking brace, ensuring it fits well to provide optimal support.
The patient may experience immediate pain relief wearing the brace.
Patients are instructed on how to properly wear and maintain the brace should they decide to purchase it. Patients are recommended to wear the brace when they have pain, which may be only during sports, or all day. This type of brace does not need to be worn while sleeping.
This type of brace is used on an ongoing, as-needed basis.
Multidisiplinary Care
Additionally, if indicated, patients may be referred for physiotherapy to complement the brace’s effectiveness in resolving the issue.
The goal is to provide a comprehensive approach to managing knee problems, addressing both immediate symptoms and underlying biomechanical issues.
Using the brace can boost the patient’s confidence in engaging fully in rehabilitation efforts. It can be worn for the short to midterm to support rehabilitation and provide confidence.
Importantly, it doesn’t substitute for a comprehensive rehab program; instead, it complements it, facilitating more thorough completion and encouraging adherence
Book a Knee Assessment at Orthotics Plus
At Orthotics Plus, we have performed thousands of successful knee-related prescriptions and look forward to your unique matter.
- Our team is university-qualified and registered with AOPA
- We have multiple clinics throughout Melbourne
- We stock a range of exceptional-quality braces
- We were established in 2012
To make an appointment, please book online or call our friendly, Australian administration team!
Contact Us Call (03) 9077 6414
FAQ
They are best worn directly on the skin, as this provides the ideal grip and positioning of the brace.