Knee Pain - How Orthotics Can Help

Do you wince in pain every time you take a step? Whether it's a mild ache, a sharp twinge, or a persistent throb, knee pain can cast a shadow over even the brightest of days. Orthotics can help alleviate knee pain. Without further ado, let’s find out the influence of orthotics in your quest for knee pain relief.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are specially designed medical devices that provide support to the feet, ankles, and, of course, knees. These devices, when used properly, can help alleviate pain, correct biomechanical imbalances, and improve overall mobility. Orthotics come in different shapes and sizes. Typically, custom orthotics, like those offered by Orthotics Direct, are most effective. For those with a diagnosed medical condition or undergoing rehab, custom orthotics can help achieve maximum pain relief.

Understanding Knee Pain

Studies confirm knee pain affects 25% of adults. Incidences of knee pain have increased by 65% over the past 20 years. Knee pain is more than just an occasional inconvenience. From young athletes, to adults, and seniors, knee pain affects individuals at all stages of life. So if you're suffering from knee pain, rest assured, you're not alone.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain can arise from a variety of different conditions, injuries, and/or lifestyle habits. Some of the common causes of knee pain include:

• Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain, especially among the elderly. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones within the knee joint wear down over time.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the synovium, a lining surrounding the joint.
• Knee Injuries: Accidental injuries are a major cause of acute knee pain. Significant knee injuries include:

• ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Tear: A tear in the ACL, a crucial ligament that stabilizes the knee joint, often occurs during sports or activities involving sudden stops or changes in direction.
• Meniscus Tear: The meniscus is a cartilage structure that acts as a cushion between the thigh bone and shinbone. Tears in the meniscus can result from sudden twists or heavy impact.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee): This condition involves pain in the front of the knee, particularly around the patella (kneecap), and is often associated with overuse or poor alignment.

• Exhausting Physical Activity: Engaging in physically-straining activities (such as running, jumping, etc) can put excessive pressure on the knee joint.
• Bursitis: Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles. Inflammation of the bursae around the knee can cause pain and swelling.
• Tendonitis: Tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendons, the tissues that connect muscles to bones. It leads to acute pain and limited range of motion.
• Gout: Gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, including the knee, leading to sudden and intense pain and inflammation.
• Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome: The IT band is a fibrous band that runs along the outside of the thigh. Its overuse can cause friction and inflammation, resulting in knee pain, especially in runners and cyclists.
• Ligament Sprains: Besides ACL tears, other ligaments in the knee, such as the MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament) and LCL (Lateral Collateral Ligament), can be sprained, leading to knee pain and instability.

Knee pain is often a signal that something isn't right with the knee joint. When experiencing knee pain, an individual should seek medical examination to determine the underlying cause of their knee pain. Early diagnosis can help prevent further damage and promote faster recovery.

How Orthotics Help Knee Pain Sufferers

Orthotics can be a game-changer in achieving relief from chronic knee pain. Specialized orthotic devices support, stabilize and alleviate pressure on the knee joint. One may not get immediate relief, but the wearer can experience significant improvement with prolonged use. Let’s find out more about how orthotics work their magic to reduce knee pain:

1. Reducing Pressure on the Knee Joint

Orthotics redistribute pressure away from the affected area of the knee. The extra cushion and support help absorb excess load from the knee joint, resulting in reduced pain and discomfort, especially for those with osteoarthritis.

2. Correcting Alignment Issues

Orthotics, particularly custom-made insoles or shoe inserts, like those offered by Orthotics Direct, are designed to address alignment issues. Orthotic inserts ensure that the bones and joints of an individual’s lower limbs work together, reducing stress on the knees, and improving mobility.

3. Improving Stability and Support

Orthotics offer stability and support to the knee joint. Orthotics prevent excessive knee movement, facilitating the recovery process.

4. Improving Biomechanics

Orthotics can optimize biomechanics by improving the way the foot, ankle, and knee function as a unit. This can lead to smoother movement and reduced strain on the knee.

5. Absorbing Shock and Impact

Orthotics are designed to absorb shock and impact during activities like walking, running, or jumping, reducing regular wear and tear of the knee.

6. Preventing Further Knee Damage

Ignoring knee pain and continuing with intense activity while in pain can increase damage to the knee(s). Orthotics provide a protective barrier and allow the knee to heal and recover faster.

7. Enhancing Quality of Life

For knee pain sufferers, orthotics are a must-have to improve quality of life. Reduced knee pain increases one’s enjoyment of daily activities, as well as the likelihood a person will enjoy an active lifestyle.

Orthotics can be a very effective solution for knee pain, though results vary from person to person. Consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate orthotic solution for your knee health condition. With the right orthotics, you can expedite your recovery while enjoying a more active, fulfilling, and pain-free lifestyle.

Selecting the Right Type of Orthotics for Knee Pain

Selecting the ideal orthotics might seem like a daunting task. Here is a calculated plan to ensure you find the perfect fit for your knee(s).

1. Consulting a Healthcare Professional

First things first, when knee pain strikes, reach out to your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. Finding out the cause of knee pain can help you navigate the best path to recovery with confidence.

1. Considering Specific Knee Pain Conditions

Not all knee pain is created equal. Different knee conditions may require different types of orthotics. For instance, for osteoarthritis, knee braces provide the ultimate support and comfort. On the other hand, orthotic shoe inserts may be more suitable for those with general discomfort from overuse.

Orthotics Direct has more than 20 years’ experience in manufacturing custom-made orthotics for knee pain. What are you waiting for? Visit OrthoticsDirect.com today!