Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between joints wears away. Since cartilage acts as a natural cushioning between joints, its deterioration results in bones more closely rubbing together, which can lead to swelling, stiffness, pain, or even the formation of bone spurs.

While OA can occur in younger people, Osteoarthritis typically effects people over 55 years of age. Risk factors include, age, heredity, gender, repetitive stress injuries, activity level, and other illnesses.

While Osteoarthritis is typically considered irreversible, there are a couple things that can be done to relieve pain and increase mobility.

Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs: Over the counter medications can provide short term relief from pain and swelling, but effectiveness can vary depending on the severity of your condition. Your doctor may also give a prescription if over-the-counter options are not working for you.

Injections: Your doctor may provide steroid or hyaluronic acid injections to provide temporary relief. Steroids are a powerful anti-inflammatory drug, and hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring fluid that helps lubricate the joints.

Bracing: There are two types of braces used for treating OA, OA unloader knee braces, which work by gently redistributing weight away from the affected side of the knee, and general support braces that provide compression.

Physical therapy: Regular exercise can help strengthen supporting muscles and make the joint more flexible. The added stability provided by stronger support muscles can help reduce pain and stiffness.

Surgery: Surgery may be a good option if you have not had success with other options. Surgical options include removal of damaged cartilage, reshaping the bone to reduce irritation, and total knee replacement surgery.

*Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Materials on this website are for general education information only.

The Game Changer is a lightweight knee brace that works by gently re-aligning the knee, redistributing weight off the affected joint. The knee’s anatomy consists of two compartments, one on the inside (medial compartment) and one on the outside (lateral compartment). By gently pushing the knee inward or outward, the brace can shift pressure off the medial or lateral compartment. On top of reducing pain, it also provides stability, reducing strain on ligaments, cartilage, and surrounding tissues.

Unloader Knee Brace vs. Offloader Knee Brace
The terms “unloader knee brace” and “offloader” or “off-loader knee brace” can be used interchangeably. Both describe a hinged knee brace that is designed to relieve pressure from the knee, allowing for quick and effective pain relief.

Medial Unloader Knee Brace vs. Lateral Unloader Knee Brace
An arthritis unloader knee brace is designed to reduce pressure on one specific compartment of the knee. A medial unloader knee brace applies a valgus force (pushes outward) to shift weight from the inner, or medial, compartment of the knee to the outer compartment. In contrast, a lateral unloader brace applies a varus force to shift weight from the outer, or lateral, compartment of the knee to the inner compartment, effectively offloading the joint. While a double upright brace typically relieves both medial and lateral knee pain, the Game Changer can do the same, all in a single upright design.

You may have heard your doctor use the term “L1843 knee brace.” In healthcare, providers often refer to products using the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS). Put simply, L1843 is the code providers use when referring to a single-upright unloader knee brace.