27/01/2026
A recent study has found that using a knee brace can help people with painful knee osteoarthritis manage their symptoms.
The research was led by Professor Melanie Holden at Keele University and Professor George Peat at Sheffield Hallam University and published in the British Medical Journal.
The study showed that people with osteoarthritis who received a tailored knee brace intervention from their physiotherapist alongside self management advice and an exercise plan reported greater improvement in their symptoms compared with those who received advice and exercise alone.
Around one in five adults over the age of 45 are affected by painful knee osteoarthritis, often causing long term pain, reduced quality of life, lost productivity at work, and difficulty with everyday activities. The researchers wanted to investigate whether a knee brace could provide lasting benefit.
In this clinical trial, 466 people with knee osteoarthritis were assessed by a physiotherapist and randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group received advice, written information, and an exercise plan. The second group received the same support with the addition of a knee brace.
The findings showed that participants who were randomised to the knee brace group experienced less pain, better physical function, and higher quality of life outcomes compared with the group who received advice and exercise alone.
Professor Melanie Holden, Professor of Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation at Keele University, said
“There has been little high quality evidence on whether knee braces help people with knee osteoarthritis. Our study is the world’s largest independent trial of knee bracing for knee osteoarthritis and shows that a tailored knee brace, alongside advice and exercise, is a low risk option that patients may find worthwhile.”
Reflecting on the research, Allison Beard MSc BSc BAPD Cert Ed said
“I have been prescribing knee braces for 15 years with great success and results from patients.
Glad to see this study."
Allison is a Consultant in Sports Medicine and Biomechanics and a Registered Osteopath at On Call Doctors. She has over 30 years experience in musculoskeletal medicine and specialises in sports injury diagnosis and treatment, as well as spinal health including back pain, neck pain, and headaches. She is passionate about keeping people of all ages fit, active, and healthy and is an experienced lecturer who remains involved in research.
Are you looking for more information surrounding knee pain, osteoarthritis, or musculoskeletal conditions and the treatment options available to you? At On Call Doctors, our private doctors service offers no long waits, more time with your clinician, and a personalised approach to care. Allison Beard provides expert assessment, evidence based advice, and tailored treatment plans, giving patients the time, attention, and clinical expertise they deserve.
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