9 Best Health Coach-Reviewed Unloader Knee Braces: Buying Guide – 2024
Seamus Sullivan is a Los Angeles, California-based Performance Health Coach. As a young athlete, Seamus got his start in the sport of wrestling and even competed to the collegiate level. Athletics for him was not all the glory he thought it to be as sustained injuries throughout his career.
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Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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rajeshwari das Rajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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In This Article
It is inevitable to suffer from knee, neck, and back issues when we are at home and hardly exercising, so the smart way to fix that problem is to invest in the best unloader knee brace. It will provide relief for your knee pain and leave you feeling comfortable as it soothes your joints. It will help in the slow healing and rehabilitation of your knees and prevent the sudden urge and pangs of pain during everyday activities. Seamus Sullivan, a California-based Performance Health Coach, says, “Not only are these supports beneficial, but it is also important not to rely on them too long. It’s ideal to use them for some time while on a program that helps one’s knee start creating its own strength and stability.” This 10 best-compiled list of unloader knee braces will add support and coziness to your muscles.
Choose the one for you and test it out today!
[table “1580” not found /]The 9 Best Unloader Knee Braces
1. Best Lightweight:Orthomen OA Unloader Knee Brace
The Orthomen OA Unloader Knee Brace is specially designed for reducing knee pain caused by unicompartmental osteoarthritis of the knees. The brace also helps in delaying the need for knee replacement surgery. The unloader brace is comfortable, lightweight, and low-profile. It has three points of leverage, including suspension and unloading leverage, for reducing pressure on the knee joint. The knee brace is universal and can be used by a wide variety of patients easily. The brace has a strapping system that allows for a complete adjustment of the braces. It also features quick snaps that allow for a quick and easy application. The brace comes with condyle pads that increase comfort, stability, and pain control. It also has optional flexion and extension stops for a range of motion control. Check out some of the reviews online to learn more about this product.
Specifications
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Comfortable
- Provides good support to the knee joints
- Lightweight
- Has 3 point leverage to reduce pressure on knee joint
- Condyle pads increase comfort and stability
Cons
- None
2. Best For Knee Stabilization:Vive ROM Knee Brace
The Vive ROM Knee Brace provides complete rehabilitative knee support during daily activities. It stabilizes the knee and also minimizes the risk of re-injury. The brace also aids in post-operative recovery. The product lets you control the range of motion of the knee through an adjustable locking dial, an extension, and flexion sliders. It has a bilateral range of motion dials that can be set from 30 degrees to open flexion, and 10 to 30 degrees of extension. The open ROM brace is fully adjustable for optimal support and comfort for the left and right knees. Each brace pad is adjustable for a total length ranging from 18 inches to 23.5 inches. The brace is made of strong aluminum alloy that makes it lightweight and provides exceptional support. The support discs in the knee brace are lightly padded for great comfort and load reduction. The knee brace comes with a 2-year guarantee. Go through this YouTube video to know more about the tester’s experience with the product.
Specifications
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Comfortable
- Sturdy
- Comes with adjustable locking dials
- Allows you to control the range of motion of knees
- Comes with a 2-year guarantee
Cons
- May slide down
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 1,165 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
3. Best Innovative Web Design:Don Joy Reaction Web Knee Support Brace
The DonJoy Reaction Web Knee Brace has an innovative web design that absorbs shock, disperses energy, and shifts pain away from the knee. The knee brace is developed by the world-renowned orthopedic surgeon, Dr. William Nordt. The webbing design acts to dynamically stabilize the patella (kneecap) on all sides and brings it into a proper tracking position to reduce joint pain. The open framework of the elastomeric web with mesh backing creates a comfortable fit. It also gives a breathable solution for relief from anterior knee pain. The brace is lightweight as it weighs only 0.5 lbs. The knee brace comes with one undersleeve that is made from 85% nylon and 15% spandex. The knee brace can be used to prevent injuries, such as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), chondromalacia patella (runner’s knee), quadriceps or patellar tendonitis/tendinosis (jumper’s knee), Osgood-Schlatter disease, general patellar tracking issues and instability, and mild knee osteoarthritis. Reviewers online agree that the brace is a universal fit and can be worn on either the left or right leg.
Specifications
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Stable
- Comes with an innovative web design that absorbs shock
- Undersleeve is made from 85% nylon and 15% spandex
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 1,891 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
Orthomen OA Unloader Knee Brace Best Lightweight | Vive ROM Knee Brace Best For Knee Stabilization | Don Joy Reaction Web Knee Support Brace Best Innovative Web Design | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | - | - | 13 x 1 x 10 inches |
| Weight | - | - | 8.8 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 436 | 1,165 | 1,891 |
| Price | $119.69 | $79.99 | $98.87 |
4. Best For Knee Joint:Superior Braces OA Unloader Knee Brace
The Superior Braces OA Unloader Knee Brace is a top-rated osteoarthritis knee brace and knee unloader. It has an easy functionality that promises proper joint unloading. The brace is made from an industrial grade plastic shell. It also has neoprene wrapped breathable padding that gives ultra support and comfort. The knee brace is available for both lateral and medial osteoarthritis knee issues. It is easily adjustable and comes with a screwdriver that can be used to unscrew two screws and custom-fit the knee brace to the positions you need. The knee brace has a low profile and is lightweight. It provides three points of leverage to reduce pressure inside the knee joint. It has valgus and varus adjustments that can be fitted to an individual’s alignment. For further information, check out this honest review of a tester’s experience with the product.
Specifications
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Adjustable
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Neoprene padding offers extra support
- Offers 3 points of leverage
Cons
- Does not stay in place
Remember5. Best Non-Slip Fabric:Comfyorthopaedic OA- Osteoarthritis Adjustable Knee Brace
The Comfyorthopaedic OA- Osteoarthritis Adjustable Knee Brace is specifically designed to help patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee and can be used both as a medial and lateral brace. It also helps with rheumatoid arthritis and ligament injury and supports repairing meniscal cartilage derangement caused due to meniscus tears, articular cartilage defects, avascular necrosis, recovery from tibial plateau fractures, and knee cartilage. This knee brace reduces pressure and relieves pain from the knees. The adjustable knee brace offers valgus and varus fit correction, limits lateral-knee movement, and ensures easy mobility. Additionally, the non-slip fabric helps keep the brace in one place, requiring little to no adjustments during use. The lightweight material is comfortable to wear, allowing the skin to breathe. Manage your knee pain with this brace and decrease the use of pain medication today!
Specifications
- Weight: 45 pounds
- Size: Universal size up to 32 inches
Pros
- Lightweight
- Adjustable
- Made with non-slip fabric
Cons
- None
6. Best Low-Profile Design:Komzer OA Unloader Knee Brace
The Komzer OA Unloader Knee Brace is an exceptionally lightweight designed knee brace for patients with knee osteoarthritis. It has a valgus angle adjustment that helps in compartmental off-loading and offers pain relief. This type of brace features three-point leverage for reducing pressure on the knee joints. The flexion or extension is for a range of motion control, and quick-release buckles help in easy and fast application. This knee brace also features condyle pads and silicone-gripped liners for pain control. These braces are useful to support MCL, ACL, and PCL, and for rheumatoid arthritis, bone-on-bone issue, meniscal cartilage defect repair, and bow leg correction knee conditions.
Specifications
- Weight: 34.24 ounces
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Universal fit
- Promotes normal joint movement
- Easy-to-use
Cons
- None
Remember7. Best Universal Design:BraceAbility Osteoarthritis Unloader Knee Brace
The BraceAbility Osteoarthritis Unloader Knee Brace is a lightweight product with adjustable straps that can fit up to 30-inch thigh circumference. It is made from medical-grade plastic and foam padding, and its low-profile design prevents skin sensitivity. The adjustable straps completely prevent pressure on the knees. The quick-release buckles help in easy and fast application. This hinged knee brace also features a non-slip interior for all-day secured wear. It helps reduce pain from arthritis and offers support to ACL, MCL, PCL, and for most injuries and post-operational protection after surgery. In addition, it also features extension inserts that help prevent bending.
Specifications
- Weight: 6 ounces
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Heavy-duty design
- Medical-grade
- Quick-release buckles
- Adjustable padding
Cons
- None
8. Best Durability:KGOI Osteofix Unloader Knee Brace
The KGOI Osteofix Unloader Knee Brace is a highly effective optimum relief knee brace. It is effective against mild to severe unicompartmental osteoarthritis, arthritis, knee pain, swelling, stiffness, injuries, degeneration or any other knee joint issues and supports PCL, MCL, and ACL injuries. The unloader comes in four different size variations (S, M, L, and XL) to fit any knee size perfectly. The knee brace is ergonomically designed for added comfort. This knee brace is clinically proven to reduce inflammation, regain stability, and improve function and mobility. The brace is durable and sturdy. Reviews online attest to the fact that it is easy to put on and remove.
Specifications
- Weight: 4 pounds
- Size: S, M, L, and XL
Pros
- Lightweight
- Come in 4 different sizes
- Sturdy
- Durable
Cons
- None
9. Best Angle Locking System:DDS OA Pro™ Decompression Knee Brace
The DDS OA Pro™ Decompression Knee Brace is a slimmer, lighter, and effective hinged knee support brace. It has a uniquely designed triangular LTS hinge that helps treat moderate to severe osteoarthritis. This is achieved by reducing the load on both the medial and lateral compartments in the knee joint. The LTS (leverage traction system) also decompresses the knee joint and provides stability. The innovative anti-migration silicone guard prevents the brace from slipping during use, helps improve comfort, and reduces migration. The angle lock system allows to restrict leg movement if required.
Specifications
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comes with angle locking system
- Has unique LTS hinge
- Sturdy
- Comfortable
Cons
- None
In the following section, we will see how an unloaded knee brace works.
How Does An Unloader Knee Brace Work?
An unloader knee brace reduces knee pain by lowering the stress that is emerging from the affected area of the knee. It is highly recommended when you have osteoarthritis. The knee brace puts pressure on the thigh bone at three different points. This unloads the stress or pressure on the knee and transfers it from the inside of the knee to the outer part. Knee braces are primarily made from foam, molded plastic, or stainless steel, and they limit the motion of the knee in order to facilitate movement with more ease.
While purchasing an unloader knee brace, we should keep certain points in mind. The following buying guide can help.
Unloader Knee Brace Buying Guide
- Brace Quality – The ultimate function of a knee brace is to provide comfort to your knees. Hence, a brace should be of good quality to tackle osteoarthritis knee pain. The brace that you purchase must protect your knee from the front, bottom, and top while offering knee stability. It should come with two straps that make sure it does not slip while in use. It should also contain comfortable foam padding to give you cushioned support during physical activities.
- Suitable Brace Size – The size of any arthritis knee brace is an essential factor to keep in mind. It is directly related to your comfort while using a knee brace. Pick the brace whose size suits you the best.
- Expert perspective – Get an opinion from a physiologist or a physical therapist to understand the individual needs and for proper diagnosis before choosing one from the different types of knee braces.
- Reviews – Read what reviewers have to say and take into consideration their direct feedback on the product. Ensure the product has been tested properly.
Unloader knee braces are bulky. Hence, you have to wear loose pants to be more comfortable. Also, check if your insurance covers them, as knee braces can be expensive. As there are various types of unloader knee braces available on the market, do thorough research to determine which one will be suitable for you.
Infographic: Why Invest In An Unloader Knee Brace?
An unloader knee brace provides relief and support to people dealing with knee osteoarthritis. It is important to note that wearing a knee brace for the first time may cause discomfort, but it ultimately helps. Curious to know how? Check out the infographic below to understand why you should invest in one.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
The Bottom Line
Sedentary lifestyles, gym, or sports injuries, and accidents can all lead to knee pain. While we cannot avoid accidental injuries, the best unloader knee braces can help take care of the pain. The Orthomen OA Unloader Knee Brace is perfect for people with unicompartmental osteoarthritis, while the Superior Braces OA Unloader Knee Brace is good for those with lateral and medial osteoarthritis knee issues. But if you suffer from moderate to severe osteoarthritis, the DDS OA Pro™ Decompression Knee Brace is ideal for you. These braces are comfortable, lightweight, and prove handy in dealing with knee pains caused by various reasons. These are adjustable and let you control the range of motion according to your recovery needs. The listed products are made of different materials such as foam, plastic, or steel and can also be used for post-surgery recovery. However, consult a medical professional before choosing one for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How effective are unloader braces?
Unloader braces are truly effective for unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis. They can potentially delay the need for knee surgeries and reduce pain or stiffness.
What is the difference between an unloading and offloading knee brace?
Unloading knee braces and offloading knee braces have no difference as such. They shift pressure and stress from the affected side of the joint to the healthy side. They practically unload pressure and redistribute stress.
How long can you wear an unloader knee brace?
You can wear an unloader knee brace for two hours per day. If you are in too much pain, you can also keep wearing it for four hours every day. However, it is recommended to not go beyond that extent.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
With a diploma in health and wellness, Aditi Naskar, the author of this article, is familiar with people’s different health issues and related needs. She has curated this list of the best unloader knee braces after consulting experts and scouring numerous product reviews. She understands that an ideal one should be lightweight, comfortable, and adjustable. Therefore, she has included details about each product’s factors for your convenience. The buying guide provided here will help you pick the best choice.
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