The 10 Best Unloader Knee Braces: Reviews And Buying Guide
Keep knee pains and aches away due to premium-quality and comfortable products.
Seamus SullivanCertified Strength & Conditioning Specialist
Expertise: Pain-Free Training, Nutrition Coaching
Experience: 4 years
Seamus Sullivan is a Los Angeles, California-based Performance Health Coach. As a young athlete, Seamus got his start in the sport of wrestling and even competed to the collegiate level. Athletics for him was not all the glory he thought it... more
Aditi Naskar Diploma In Health & Wellness
Expertise: Health & Wellness
Experience: 4 years
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She i... more
It is inevitable to suffer from knee, neck, and back issues when we are at home and hardly exercising, so the smart way to fix that problem is to invest in the best unloader knee brace. It will curb your knee pain and leave you feeling comfortable as it soothes your joints. It will help in the healing of your knees slowly and prevent the sudden urge and pangs of pain. Seamus Sullivan, a California-based Performance Health Coach, says, “Not only are these supports beneficial, but it is also important not to rely on them too long. It’s ideal to use them for some time while on a program that helps one’s knee start creating its own strength and stability.” This 10 best-compiled list of unloader knee braces will add support and coziness to your muscles.
Choose the one for you!
In This Article
The 10 Best Unloader Knee Braces
1. Best Lightweight:Orthomen OA Unloader Knee Brace
The Orthomen OA Unloader Knee Brace is specially designed for reducing knee pain caused by unicompartmental osteoarthritis of the knees. The brace also helps in delaying the need for surgery. The unloader brace is comfortable, lightweight, and low-profile. It has three points of leverage for reducing pressure on the knee joint. The knee brace is universal and can be used by a wide variety of patients easily. The brace has a strapping system that allows for a complete adjustment of the braces. It also features quick snaps that allows for a quick and easy application. The brace comes with condyle pads that increase comfort, stability, and pain control. It also has optional flexion and extension stops for a range of motion control.
Specifications
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Comfortable
- Provides good support
- Lightweight
- Has 3 point leverage to reduce pressure on knee joint
- Condyle pads increase comfort and stability
Cons
None
2. Best For Knee Stabilization:Vive ROM Knee Brace
The Vive ROM Knee Brace provides complete rehabilitative knee support. It stabilizes the knee and also minimizes the risk of re-injury. The brace also aids in post-operative recovery. The product lets you control the range of motion of the knee through an adjustable locking dial, an extension, and flexion sliders. It has a bilateral range of motion dials that can be set from 30 degrees to open flexion, and 10 to 30 degrees of extension. The open ROM brace is fully adjustable for optimal support and comfort for the left and right knees. Each brace pad is adjustable for a total length ranging from 18 inches to 23.5 inches. The brace is made from durable aluminum alloy that makes it lightweight and provides exceptional support. The support discs in the knee brace are lightly padded for great comfort. The knee brace comes with a 2-year guarantee. Go through this YouTube video to know more about the product.
Specifications
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Comfortable
- Sturdy
- Comes with adjustable locking dials
- Allows you to control the range of motion of knees
- Comes with a 2-year guarantee
Cons
- May slide down
3. Best Innovative Web Design:Don Joy Reaction Web Knee Support Brace
The DonJoy Reaction Web Knee Brace has an innovative web design that absorbs shock, disperses energy, and shifts pain away from the knee. The knee brace is developed by the world-renowned orthopedic surgeon, Dr. William Nordt. The webbing design acts to dynamically stabilize the patella (kneecap) on all sides and brings it into a proper tracking position to reduce pain. The open framework of the elastomeric web with mesh backing creates a comfortable fit. It also gives a breathable solution for relief from anterior knee pain. The brace is lightweight as it weighs only 0.5 lbs. The knee brace comes with one undersleeve that is made from 85% nylon and 15% spandex. The knee brace can be used to decrease the chances of sustaining injuries like patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), chondromalacia patella (runner’s knee), quadriceps or patellar tendonitis/tendinosis (jumper’s knee), Osgood-Schlatter disease, general patellar tracking issues and instability, and mild knee osteoarthritis. The brace is a universal fit and can be worn on either the left or right leg.
Specifications
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Stable
- Comes with an innovative web design that absorbs shock
- Undersleeve is made from 85% nylon and 15% spandex
Cons
None
4. Best For Knee Joint:Superior Braces OA Unloader Knee Brace
The Superior Braces OA Unloader Knee Brace is a top-rated osteoarthritis knee brace. It has an easy functionality that promises proper knee unloading. The brace is made from an industrial grade plastic shell. It also has neoprene wrapped breathable padding that gives ultra support and comfort. The knee brace is available for both lateral and medial osteoarthritis knee issues. It is easily adjustable and comes with a screwdriver that can be used to unscrew two screws and set the positions you need. The knee brace has a low profile and is lightweight. It provides three points of leverage to reduce pressure inside the knee joint. It has valgus and varus adjustment that can be fitted to an individual’s alignment. For further information, check out this honest review.
Specifications
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Adjustable
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Neoprene padding offers extra support
- Offers 3 points of leverage
Cons
- Does not stay in place
5. Best Non-Slip Fabric:Comfyorthopaedic OA- Osteoarthritis Adjustable Knee Brace
The Comfyorthopaedic OA- Osteoarthritis Adjustable Knee Brace is specifically designed to help patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee and can be used both as a medial and lateral brace. It also helps with rheumatoid arthritis and supports repairing meniscal cartilage derangement, articular cartilage defects, avascular necrosis, recovery from tibial plateau fractures, and knee cartilage. This knee brace reduces pressure and relieves pain from the knees. The adjustable knee brace offers valgus and varus fit correction, limits lateral-knee movement, and ensures easy mobility. Additionally, the non-slip fabric helps keep the brace in one place, requiring little to no adjustments during use. The lightweight material is comfortable to wear, allowing the skin to breathe.
Specifications
- Weight: 45 pounds
- Size: Universal size up to 32 inches
Pros
- Lightweight
- Adjustable
- Made with non-slip fabric
Cons
None
6. Best Flexible Hinge:DR Medical OA Reliever Adjustable Osteoarthritis Relief Knee Brace
The DR Medical OA Reliever Adjustable Osteoarthritis Relief Knee Brace is designed for the medial unloading of the knee joint on a one-sided compartment. It also provides support for knee strains, sprains, and tears. The lateral vertical design has 3 points of leverage that reduce pain and stress on the medial compartment. The brace is made of lightweight material with soft silicone padding and straps that prevent migration or adjustment. It also has a hinge that is flexible to adjust to your knee size and shape comfortably.
Specifications
- Weight: 2 ounces
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Lightweight
- Flexible hinge
- Unisex
- 3 points of leverage
- Comfortable
Cons
None
7. Best Skin-Friendly:Ossur Unloader One Knee Brace
The Ossur Unloader One Knee Brace is comfortable, lightweight, and low profile. It provides suspension and unloading leverage. The knee brace has clinically proven three points of leverage, and it can be used to tune the dual dynamic force straps. Recent research on the unloader knee brace shows that it reduces pain, improves function, and decreases the use of pain medication. The knee brace can be used for mild to severe unicompartmental osteoarthritis. The knee brace is specifically designed to improve comfort and reduce migration. It has color-coded quick fit buckles that simplify application and removal of the braces. This brace has thigh circumferences of 13.5” to 29” (34.3cm to 73.5cm) and calf circumferences of 9.8” to 24” (24.9cm to 61.5cm). To find out more about the benefits of this product, watch this YouTube video.
Specifications
- Weight: 6 ounces
- Size: Thigh circumferences of 13.5” to 29” (34.3cm to 73.5cm)
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Protects skin and prevents rashes
- Has 3 points of leverage
- Quick fit buckles for easier application and removal
Cons
None
8. Best Ergonomic Design:XMJESS Unilateral OA Unloader Knee Brace
The XMJESS Unilateral OA Unloader Knee Brace is made from strong aluminum alloy. The hinged knee support brace is lightweight and extremely low profile. The hinges are made from high quality stainless steel and have a lightweight frame. With this knee brace, you will be able to limit the amplitude of the flexion or extension movements. This can be done by placing the angle limiters provided at the knee joint. It has adjustable straps and is ergonomically comfortable. It comes in a universal size that fits all. This can also be used for mild to moderate OA knee users and helps to support the knee joint. The package of this knee brace contains 1 high knee brace, 1 screwdriver, 1 hex screwdriver, and other different angle limiters and screws.
Specifications
- Weight: 4 pounds
- Size: Universal size
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comes with adjustable strap
- One size fits all
Cons
- Slips easily
9. Best Durability:KGOI Osteofix Unloader Knee Brace
The KGOI Osteofix Unloader Knee Brace is a highly effective optimum relief knee brace. It is effective against osteoarthritis, arthritis, knee pain, swelling, stiffness, injuries, degeneration or any other knee joint issues. The unloader comes in four different size variations (S, M, L, and XL) to fit any knee size perfectly. The knee brace is ergonomically designed for added comfort. This knee brace is clinically proven to reduce inflammation, regain stability, and restore function and mobility. The brace is durable and sturdy. It is easy to put on and remove.
Specifications
- Weight: 4 pounds
- Size: S, M, L, and XL
Pros
- Lightweight
- Come in 4 different sizes
- Sturdy
- Durable
Cons
None
10. Best Angle Locking System:DDS OA Pro™ Decompression Knee Brace
The DDS OA Pro™ Decompression Knee Brace is a slimmer, lighter, and effective knee brace. It has a uniquely designed triangular LTS hinge that helps treat moderate to severe osteoarthritis. This is achieved by reducing the load on both the medial and lateral compartments in the knee joint. The LTS (leverage traction system) also decompresses the knee joint and provides stability. The innovative anti-migration silicone guard prevents the brace from slipping during use. The angle lock system allows to restrict leg movement if required.
Specifications
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Size: Universal
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comes with angle locking system
- Has unique LTS hinge
- Sturdy
- Comfortable
Cons
None
In the following section, we will see how an unloaded knee brace works.
How Does An Unloader Knee Brace Work?
An unloader knee brace reduces knee pain by lowering the stress that is emerging from the affected area of the knee. It is highly recommended when you have osteoarthritis. The knee brace puts pressure on the thigh bone at three different points. This unloads the stress or pressure on the knee and transfers it from the inside of the knee to the outer part. As the knee braces are primarily made from foam, molded plastic, or steel, they limit the motion of the knee and facilitate movement.
While purchasing an unloader knee brace, we should keep certain points in mind. The following buying guide can help.
Unloader Knee Brace Buying Guide
- Brace Quality – The ultimate function of a knee brace is to provide comfort to your knees. Hence, a brace should be of good quality. The brace that you purchase must provide protection to your knee from the front, bottom, and the top. It should come with two straps that make sure it does not slip while in use. It should also contain a comfortable foam padding to give you a cushioned support.
- Suitable Brace Size – The brace size is an essential factor to keep in mind. It is directly related to your comfort while using a knee brace. Pick the brace whose size suits you the best.
Unloader knee braces are bulky. Hence, you have to wear loose pants to be more comfortable. Also, check if your insurance covers them, as knee braces can be expensive. As there are various types of unloader knee braces available on the market, do thorough research to determine which one will be suitable for you.
Sedentary lifestyles, gym, or sports injuries, and accidents can all lead to knee pain. While we cannot avoid accidental injuries, the best Unloader knee braces can help take care of the pain. These braces are comfortable, lightweight, and prove handy in dealing with knee pains caused by various reasons. These are adjustable and let you control the range of motion according to your recovery needs. The listed products are made of various different materials such as foam, plastic, or steel and can also be used for post-surgery recovery.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
With a diploma in health and wellness, Aditi Naskar, the author of this article, is familiar with people’s different health issues and related needs. She has curated this list of the best unloader knee braces after consulting experts and scouring numerous product reviews. She understands that an ideal one should be lightweight, comfortable, and adjustable. Therefore, she has included details about each product’s factors for your convenience. The buying guide provided here will help you pick the best choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How effective are unloader braces?
Unloader braces are truly effective for unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis. They can potentially delay the need for knee surgeries and reduce pain or stiffness.
What is the difference between an unloading and offloading knee brace?
Unloading knee braces and offloading knee braces have no difference as such. They shift pressure and stress from the affected side of the joint to the healthy side. They practically unload pressure and redistribute stress.
How long can you wear an unloader knee brace?
You can wear an unloader knee brace for two hours per day. If you are in too much pain, you can also keep wearing it for four hours every day. However, it is recommended to not go beyond that extent.
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