Unloader Braces
Aspen OA Knee+ Osteoarthritis Unloader Knee Brace
Available on backorder
$449.95
DonJoy OA GO Knee Brace
In Stock
Original price was: $850.00.$795.00Current price is: $795.00.
VQ Orthocare TRUlign OA Knee Brace
In Stock
$525.95
DonJoy OA Defiance Custom Unloader Knee Brace
In Stock
$1,549.00
DonJoy OA Reaction Web Unloader Knee Brace
In Stock
$234.95
DonJoy OA Fullforce Unloader Knee Brace
Available on backorder
$795.95
DonJoy OA Nano Unloader Knee Brace
In Stock
Original price was: $789.95.$699.95Current price is: $699.95.
Ossur Formfit OA Ease Knee Brace
In Stock
$639.00
Ossur Formfit Pro Knee Osteoarthritis Brace
In Stock
$407.00
Ossur Unloader One OTS Knee Brace
Available on backorder
$1,242.00
Ossur Unloader One X Knee Brace
In Stock
$1,242.00Designed for Osteoarthritis Pain Relief
Unloader braces are engineered specifically for compartmental knee osteoarthritis. They actively change joint mechanics to reduce stress on worn cartilage rather than simply compressing the knee.
Can an Unloader Brace Delay Surgery?
By improving alignment and decreasing joint compression, many individuals experience improved walking tolerance and reduced discomfort. While they do not reverse arthritis, they can help delay surgical intervention in appropriate cases.
Need Help Choosing the Right Brace?
With over 50 years of combined clinical experience in physiotherapy and orthopaedics, our team can help determine whether a medial or lateral unloader brace is appropriate for your condition and assist with sizing guidance.
Tax Exemption with a Valid Prescription
Many unloader knee braces qualify as zero-rated medical devices in Canada when supplied with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. In eligible cases, GST/HST may not apply under CRA Schedule VI guidelines.
Proudly Canadian
The Physio Store is a Canadian-owned company serving patients and clinics nationwide. We ship across Canada and provide expert guidance backed by decades of rehabilitation and orthopaedic experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an unloader knee brace and how does it work?
An unloader knee brace is a specialized osteoarthritis brace designed to shift pressure away from the damaged side of the knee joint. It uses a three-point leverage system to realign the knee slightly, reducing compression on the arthritic compartment and helping decrease pain during walking and standing.
What is the difference between a medial and lateral unloader knee brace?
A medial unloader brace reduces pressure on the inside (medial) compartment of the knee, which is where most osteoarthritis occurs. A lateral unloader brace shifts pressure away from the outer compartment. Your healthcare provider can determine which type is appropriate based on your diagnosis and imaging.
Do unloader knee braces really help with osteoarthritis pain?
For many patients, yes. Unloader braces can significantly reduce pain by decreasing joint compression in the affected compartment. While they do not cure arthritis, they can improve function, increase walking tolerance, and help individuals remain active longer.
Can an off-loader knee brace delay knee replacement surgery?
In some cases, yes. By improving joint mechanics and reducing stress on worn cartilage, an off-loader brace may help delay the need for knee replacement. Many patients use them as part of a conservative treatment plan before considering surgery.
Do I need a prescription for an unloader knee brace in Canada?
A prescription is not always required to purchase one, but many unloader knee braces may qualify for tax exemption or insurance reimbursement when provided with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional.
Are unloader knee braces tax free in Canada with a prescription?
In many cases, yes. Certain knee orthoses, including unloader braces, may qualify as zero-rated medical devices under CRA Schedule VI when supplied with a valid prescription. This means GST/HST may not apply. We recommend confirming eligibility with your healthcare provider or insurer.
What conditions are unloader knee braces commonly used for?
They are most commonly used for medial or lateral compartment knee osteoarthritis. They may also be recommended for degenerative joint disease, meniscal wear, cartilage damage, or persistent compartment-specific knee pain.
What is the difference between a custom and off-the-shelf unloader brace?
Custom unloader braces are made from measurements or scans of your leg and offer highly precise alignment control. Off-the-shelf models are adjustable and provide effective correction at a lower cost and faster delivery time. The best option depends on severity, anatomy, and activity level.
Can I wear an unloader knee brace during sports or exercise?
Many people wear unloader braces during walking, hiking, golf, and light recreational sports. Higher-impact activities should be discussed with your healthcare provider to ensure proper fit and joint protection.
How tight should an unloader knee brace fit?
The brace should feel secure and supportive without causing numbness, tingling, or excessive discomfort. Proper fit is essential for effective unloading, so following sizing guidelines or consulting our team is recommended.
Unloader & Off-Loader Knee Braces in Canada
Shop unloader knee braces designed to reduce osteoarthritis pain by shifting pressure away from the affected knee compartment.
Answers to common questions about this category are available below.
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