Therapeutic benefit
The therapeutic and preventive benefits of a knee orthosis are based on mechanical and physical mechanisms. Movements that do not harm a healthy knee with fixed ligament structures can have serious consequences after an injury or in the context of a chronic disease. Such movements include the anterior or posterior displacement of the lower leg relative to the thigh, complete extension and flexion of the joint, and one-sided heavy loading of the knee joint towards the outside or inside.
The knee orthosis intervenes in certain movement patterns to provide relief, protection and, if necessary, correction. The wearing time of the orthosis is between four to six weeks in postoperative or conservative treatment. After that, the muscles should gradually resume their own function. The knee orthosis is a recognized aid in the treatment of arthrotic joint changes and is covered by statutory health insurance. The statutory health insurance companies cover the costs incurred in the manufacture of the orthosis.
Manufacturer and prices
Many manufacturers offer their services on the knee orthosis market. The offer includes systems adapted to the needs in different price ranges. A significant price difference is evident when purchasing series sizes or custom-made models.
Simple knee orthoses are available from 30 euros. Complex models can cost up to several thousand euros. The individual fabrication is carried out by orthopedic technicians.
Knee supports from Mueller®, Sporlastic, CT-Pro®and Push-med®are available for between 30 and 120 euros. Instability orthoses from LP Support®, Medi®and Mueller® cost between 60 and 150 Euros. Models from the manufacturer Medi® are used to remobilize torn cruciate ligaments, ruptured collateral ligaments and in cases of instability.
The price for an orthosis of this form is about 180 Euro. LP Support®and McDavid® offer low-priced versions for around 70 euros, while Bauernfeind®sells sophisticated orthoses for around 600 euros. Össur® orthoses for the treatment of arthrosis have a three-point system.
The punctual load on the knee joint is distributed over two main points and an opposite pressure point. One main point each is located above and below the knee joint. This reduces the main load in the knee joint gap and widens the joint gap.
Stretching and bending movements can thus be performed with almost no problems. Different models are used depending on the severity of the arthrosis. Physical activity is facilitated, pain and movement restrictions are reduced.
The price of the knee orthosis is around 700 euros. Gonarthrosis orthoses from Sporlastic®are available from as little as 90 euros, Bauernfeind® models from around 300 euros. In general, an individually adapted decision must be made in consultation with the treating physician.
If the knee joint is to be protected and stabilized during sports, there is a wide range of orthoses to choose from. A simple support from LPSupport® is available for as little as 40 euros.More expensive models from the same manufacturer or from Mueller®and McDavid® are available from 80 to about 180 euros. In motorcross sports, a knee orthosis can provide helpful services.
Since the exact fit plays a particularly important role in sports, the knee joint is measured exactly and then processed on the computer. Maximum flexibility and unrestricted movements are an important criterion in extreme sports. Light yet stable frame material made of carbon and joints made of titanium guarantee high static support.
While the custom-made version, for example from Össur®, is available from 1500 Euro, series sizes are available from 1000 Euro. The manufacturer Ortema® also offers customized knee orthoses for extreme sports. They are used as a supporting aid to prevent knee injuries, after cruciate ligament ruptures or in cases of arthrosis.
The cost of custom fabrication based on a plaster cast is approximately 2000 euros. Other manufacturers such as Alpinestars®, Leat® and POD MX® offer more economical knee orthoses. The price range is between three hundred and seven hundred euros.
