KNEE PAIN
The Effect of Knee Braces on Quadriceps Strength and Inhibition in Subjects With Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis was published in the January 2016 volume of the Journal of the American Physical Therapy Association. This article suggests that flexible knee supports do not limit quadriceps strength or increase inhibition.
Arthritis refers to inflammation and stiffness of the joint and is usually associated with narrowing of the joint space. The primary joint of the knee is between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). The knee also includes the patella (knee cap) which sits in a groove on the femur and this is where patellafemoral (PF) arthritis occurs.
There is a common misconception that knee braces actually inhibit function by decreasing the quad’s strength as the body becomes adjusted to extra support and therefore performs less work. However, this article found that the quadricep’s maximum voluntary contraction (strength) was not limited. Additionally, it was concluded that knee braces do not increase inhibition, or the muscle’s ability to receive neurological input. Therefore, if you have PF arthritis and you get pain with activity such as climbing stairs or getting up from a chair, then using a flexible knee brace could be beneficial.
To be clear, this article only studied the effects of a brace with patellofemoral arthritis. Other types of knee pain may or may not react as well as this study claims. If there is any question, please discuss with your doctor or physical therapist.
