Knee Brace Basics

written by Marie-Michelle Lafontaine, physiotherapist

Have you had a knee injury?  Or do you suffer from knee pain but you’re not sure whether you should purchase a knee brace? 

Did you know that most insurance companies cover knee braces?!

1-Braces can help:

• Reduce pain
• Protect your knee from future injury
• Maintain activities while healing
• Prevent further wear and tear on the joint
• Improve athletic performance

Braces are meant to be an adjunct to your rehabilitation therapy to help you reach your goals, not a fix on their own.

2-Where is your knee pain?

Depending on your injury, we can determine the type of support you need. Your physiotherapist at Element Therapeutics will perform a thorough assessment and help you choose the best brace for you.

3-Insurance coverage: 

Most extended health plans have some level of coverage for knee braces, typically covering 80% (under ‘medical device’ or ‘compression garment’).

Step 1: Call your insurance company to find your specific coverage. 

Step 2: Get a note from your physician or physiotherapist (if requested by your insurance company).

Step 3: Call us to book a physiotherapy assessment and brace fitting, or book your appointment online. You will be provided with a receipt or quote for submitting your claim with your insurance provider.

4- Different types of knee braces:

Off-the-shelf hinged brace: Best used for mild instabilities / ligament sprains or mild meniscal tears

Compressive knee sleeve: Best used for inflammation, swelling, mild knee strains

Patella stabilizer brace: Best used for patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), patellar instability, or chondromalacia

Custom brace: Best for damaged or post-surgically repaired ACL, or other severe ligament injuries

Custom off-loader brace: Best used for unicompartmental osteoarthritis

Questions?  Stop by the clinic, give us a call or email us and we will be happy to assist you!