Braces and supports can help reduce joint pressure by stabilizing the joint, improving alignment, and redistributing forces away from damaged or painful areas. This can lead to decreased pain, improved function, and potentially slow the progression of joint damage, especially in conditions like osteoarthritis.
In osteoarthritis of the knee, for example, specialized braces called “unloader braces” are designed to shift the load away from the affected compartment of the knee. These braces hold the knee in a slightly valgus (outward) or varus (inward) position to reduce compressive forces on the damaged side, thereby decreasing joint pressure and pain. Clinical guidelines from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) support the use of knee braces to improve function, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life in individuals with knee osteoarthritis[5]. These braces are often used alongside other treatments such as physiotherapy and muscle strengthening to maximize benefits[1].
Foot orthoses (custom shoe inserts) also play a role in reducing joint pressure by correcting posture and leg alignment from the ground up. By stabilizing the foot and improving the mechanical axis of the leg, foot orthoses can reduce abnormal strain on the knee joint, which helps control pain and prevent further joint damage[1]. Studies show that combining foot orthoses with knee braces and physiotherapy can significantly improve pain relief and joint function compared to using any single treatment alone[1].
Beyond braces, aerobic exercise is another important non-surgical intervention that helps reduce joint pressure by strengthening muscles around the joint, improving cartilage health, and aiding weight management. Exercise provides appropriate mechanical loading that promotes cartilage repair and reduces inflammation, which in turn decreases joint pain and pressure[3]. Maintaining muscle mass, especially in the lower extremities, supports joint stability and reduces the load borne directly by the joint surfaces[3].
While braces and supports are effective in many cases, they are generally not recommended as the first line of treatment for joint pain or osteoarthritis. Clinical guidelines suggest starting with exercise and manual therapies, using braces when these approaches do not sufficiently improve symptoms[10]. Braces provide mechanical support and pain relief but do not address underlying causes such as muscle weakness or inflammation, so they are best used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
In summary, braces and supports can reduce joint pressure by stabilizing joints, correcting alignment, and redistributing forces away from damaged areas. They are particularly useful in managing osteoarthritis and joint instability, often in combination with physiotherapy and exercise. Their effectiveness is supported by clinical guidelines and research studies, which emphasize their role in pain reduction and functional improvement when used appropriately[1][5][7].
Sources:
[1] Bauerfeind life – A key element of treatment
[3] Frontiers in Physiology – Clinical effect and mechanism of aerobic exercise for knee osteoarthritis
[5] Lifewiseac Medical Policies – Custom-made Knee Orthoses (Braces), Ankle-Foot
[7] Braceworks – Simple therapies outperform drugs for knee arthritis pain relief
[10] Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy – Hip Pain and Mobility Deficits—Hip Osteoarthritis: Revision 2025
