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!