Are you looking for the best unloader knee brace?
An unloader knee brace is highly recommended if you have had multiple episodes of knee pain and are looking for an option that will take off the tension from your knee, allowing it to recover and become strong.
In this article, we are going to go through some of the best rated unloader knee braces.
We are also going to explain how to purchase the most suitable knee brace for yourself and answer some frequently asked questions related to purchasing.
PS: Not sure if this type of brace will help you? Here’s our complete guide on unloader knee braces to help you find out.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Braceability Osteoarthritis Unloader Knee Brace
From one of the market’s leaders in knee supports, Braceability’s version is as close as it gets to relieving pain like a custom-made unloader.
Best Value for Money: NEENCA Unloader ROM Knee Brace
Great product from a reliable company. NEENCA’s unloader is fully adjustable, durable, and comes at a competitive price.
Best Runner-up: SuperiorBraces OA Unloader Knee Brace
Feels very similar to the other top choices and also very affordable. But there might be issues with fit.
Top 5 Best Unloader Knee Braces – Product Reviews
1. Braceability Osteoarthritis Unloader Knee Brace
Pros
- Great customer service from Braceability
- As close as you can get to custom-made unloaders
- Lightweight but durable
- Comfortable padding
- Available for both knees
Cons
- Above average price
Braceability is known for producing joint orthotics for a lot of different conditions. This is their share to the osteoarthritis community – and we think it’s the best one out there.
Primarily, this is because this the OTC unloader that comes closest to the custom-made ones. Thus, it’s one that our team of PTs also recommend.
You can also get it for either your left or right knee and that’s always a plus on our book. Compared to many other unloader braces on the market, this also stands out as one of the most durable.
The padding beneath the straps also feel comfortable, the straps do a great job of holding the knee brace up largely because this is also isn’t heavy despite its durability.
However, it’s also one of the more (not the most) expensive OTC unloaders we’ve seen.
2. NEENCA Unloader ROM Knee Brace
Pros
- Top-selling brand for knee supports
- Effective pain relief for either side of your knee
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- Straps and padding need more consistency
NEENCA has been making all sorts of knee supports from sleeves, to braces, and of course, unloaders. They’re also one of Amazon’s best selling brands for these supports, so when you find a NEENCA branded product, it’s generally safe to say it’s really good.
And, in this case, their unloader knee brace is right on the money.
For an OTC unloader, it effectively relieves pain from bone on bone arthritis because it’s also fully adjustable. Meaning, you can adjust this to reduce pressure on either side of your knee. AND! You can even adjust it to limit certain degrees of knee extension.
Plus, its price is right around average.
The brand, its versatility, and its price all justify its place amongst the top ready-made unloader knee braces in the market.
What I will say, though, is that the straps and padding can be hit or miss. It manages to hold the brace in place for some people whereas there might be issues for others.
3. Superior Braces OA Unloader Knee Brace
Pros
- Light-weight brace
- 3 points of leverage
- Single strapping design
- Targeted recovery
- Fully adjustable
- Moisture wicking and breathable
- Warranty
Cons
- Fitting issues
This unloader knee brace provides joint support and reduces pain.
It is a lightweight device that promotes proper gate mechanics and not only helps with alignment and correction of knee flexion, but it also promotes the correct use of the muscles that are the main knee stabilizers.
This makes it a great choice for people who are really looking to get a control on their knee pain since they are required to walk / stand a lot at work.
The knee brace will decrease motions that contribute to chronic wear and tear of the joint, which will help extend the health and longevity of your knee reflex.
Comfort and Stability
Like most top braces in our list, this one too is light in weight and has a soft inner padding for utmost comfort.
It is quite stable, due to the anti-slip gripping on the inner layer.
Durability and Quality
This unloader knee brace has been created after stringent testing.
Made from a top grade composite frame, the knee brace does not break under stress or sweat.
It will keep working like new and allow you to change your stagnant lifestyle to a moving one.
Cost and Value
You can get one of the best unloader knee brace on Amazon for under $80.
4. MB Medical Braces OA Unloader Knee Brace
Pros
- Free tools.
- Multiple points of leverage.
- Effectively relieves pressure on the inner side of your knee.
- Cheap
Cons
- Not quite as comfortable
MB Medical Braces have a plethora of orthotics that are meant to make life easier on people with joint conditions. This unloader knee brace is their best answer to those of us with arthritis.
Like the previous braces, this comes with 3 points of leverage and the tools to fully adjust the hinges.
It also feels similar to both Superior Braces and Braceability’s versions but the padding somehow doesn’t feel quite as comfortable. That’s mainly the reason why it fell down a few spots on our list.
However, it’s also cheaper than both. If this is what fits your budget and you’re willing to compromise a bit of comfort, this will be a good choice.
5. BCI eLife OA Unloader Knee Brace
Pros
- High quality materials
- Relieves pressure on either side of your knee.
- Comfortable and durable
Cons
- Expensive
BCI eLife’s unloader knee brace looks quite different from the above choices but it’s also just as effective.
It’s durable, comfortable, and the plastic feels like it’s made from a high quality material. The straps feel quite sturdy, too.
But, what’s so great about this unloader knee brace is that it can relieve pain from either side of your knee. Most OTC knee braces really just pick a side. This versatility is largely what puts it on our list.
However, it’s also the most expensive option on this list and that’s why it’s dropped this low.
Factors to Consider When Choosing The Best Underloader Knee Brace
Comfort and Stability
Now the most important thing when it comes to buying the best unloader knee brace is to make sure it’s comfortable and stable.
No matter how great the features of a knee brace are, if it’s uncomfortable, you are not going to wear it regularly and, hence, will not be able to recover from your condition.
Choose a knee brace that has a soft underlining and is made from a fabric that does not irritate your skin.
Also ensure that it is stable and does not slip, since by moving or slipping, the knee brace is compromising on the support.
Durability and Quality
Second to comfort and stability is the durability.
When you are spending a lot of money on a knee support, you want to make sure that it lasts for at least a few years.
Check that you are buying from reputable brands and the knee brace is coming with a warranty program.
Some high quality knee braces even provide lifetime warranties.
Cost and Value
The value of a knee brace is debatable.
So much depends on your own needs, your condition and your budget.
Premium knee braces are usually more reliable, offer greater durability and warranty.
Hence, we recommend you to get one if you have the budget.
Nevertheless, there are some great value for money models in the market.
We have listed some options in our review that offer great features for people with lower budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a knee unloader brace work?
Unloader knee brace helps to prevent you from undergoing knee surgery.
It works specifically by utilizing a leverage system that shifts weight from the damaged part of your knee to another part.
Some leverage systems are 3 points, while others are 4 points.
4 point leverage system provides greater support. This allows the damaged part of your knee to recover.
The unloader knee brace also helps to strengthen your knee, thigh and calf muscles overall to prevent conditions from developing in the future.
Does wearing a knee brace weaken the knee?
Wearing a knee brace does not weaken your knee.
In fact, a knee brace does the opposite.
It protects and strengthens your knees.
Athletes all over the world use knee braces to protect their knees and legs.
Is a knee brace considered durable medical equipment?
Yes, a knee brace is a durable medical equipment since it can be used repeatedly for at least three years.
This means that your insurance will cover a large chunk of the knee brace cost.
Should I wear a knee brace for arthritis?
Yes, medical knee braces have been purposely built to help with arthritis.
By encouraging movement and activity, knee braces help to reduce the stiffness caused by arthritis.
Should I wear a knee brace all day?
You can wear a knee brace all day long if your knees feel weak.
However, if your knees have recovered, you should move without the brace (at least for short durations) to strengthen the knees.
Note: The answers are not a replacement for medical advice. Please visit a doctor for advice on recovery from your ailment, if you have a serious condition.
Conclusion
This concludes our review of the best unloader knee braces.
We have picked seven products that have surpassed most options in the market, in terms of the comfort, durability and features.
Our listed products are from top manufacturers and have a history of positive feedback.
If you have used any of the listed knee braces before and want to share feedback, do contact us via the contact form on the website.
We hope that one of our mentioned top unloader knee braces will help you improve your situation, enhance your balance and reduce the occurrence of any injuries.
