Hip and Knee Bracing: Categorization, Treatment Algorithm, and Systematic Review

Abstract

Hip and knee braces or orthoses are often used to provide support after surgery and to prevent or reduce the severity of injuries. The braces are used for stabilization, immobilization, mechanical correction, and rehabilitation. Hip braces consist of stabilization and unloader variations, whereas knee braces are composed of knee sleeves and patellofemoral, prophylactic, unloader, and functional braces. Indications vary widely and depend on the type of brace. Hip braces can treat osteoarthritis to instability after total hip arthroplasty. Knee brace indications range from mild arthralgias to instability and osteoarthritis. Although braces are routinely used clinically, high-level evidence is sparse for their use. With this review, the different types and uses of hip and knee braces have been defined, and their indications exemplified in hopes of spurring future research.