Use a Knee Brace For Effective Tricompartmental Osteoarthritis Treatment

Arthritis is expected to strike roughly 78 million people by the year 2040, and it may appear in different forms including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with tricompartmental osteoarthritis, you may feel that its name sounds odd and intimidating – but do not despair. The condition is manageable, and braces from Elite Medical Supply are available to bring relief and slow its progression.

What Is Tricompartmental Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis results when cartilage within a joint becomes worn or damaged, resulting in the ends of two bones rubbing together.

The knee anatomy is divided into three areas known as compartments. They are:

• Medial compartment – area in which the thigh and shin bones meet, as well as the surrounding space toward the inside of the leg (same side as inner thigh)
• Lateral compartment – region in which the thigh and shin bones join, including the surrounding space toward the outside of the leg
• Patellofemoral compartment– space between the kneecap and thighbone.

When osteoarthritis affects all three compartments, it is named tricompartmental osteoarthritis.

What Are the Symptoms?

This form of arthritis may result in any of the following:

• Knee pain that increases over time
• Stiffness upon waking
• Limited range of motion
• Crunching or scraping sensation during joint movement
• Swelling
• Increased pain after intense exercise or during rainy weather
• A knock-kneed or bow-legged appearance

Are There Risk Factors for Developing Tricompartmental Osteoarthritis?

There are various factors that present an increased risk of developing this medical condition:

Age

As we move on in years, portions of joints slowly experience wear and tear. It is not a definitive part of aging, but it is common for many people.

Gender

Women seem more likely to develop osteoarthritis than men, particularly after the age of fifty.

Previous Injury

If a joint has suffered an injury in the past, there is an increased likelihood that osteoarthritis may develop in the future.

Obesity

Carrying excess weight will place stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees. Consult your physician to determine if this might apply to you. Discuss your ideal weight and healthy ways to approach that target.

Genetics

If a close relation has osteoarthritis, there is an elevated chance that you carry a predisposition toward developing it yourself.

Repetition of Certain Activities

There are actions that may stress joints if carried on over an extended period. Moving or lifting heavy objects, engaging in certain sports activities, and climbing many flights of stairs may lead to eventual trouble with this condition.

Can This Type of Arthritis Be Treated?

Although this condition cannot be cured, its symptoms and progression certainly can be managed with various techniques as recommended by a physician:

Weight Loss

If indicated, losing extra pounds may lead to a significant benefit. Studies have demonstrated that losing just one pound can remove four pounds of pressure from the knee. A loss of ten pounds could remove forty pounds of pressure.

Medication

Your doctor may recommend drugs to help bring relief:

• Corticosteroid injections to fight inflammation
• Over-the-counter NSAID medication (such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
• Other prescription medications

Supportive Brace

A specialized knee brace from Elite Medical Supply can help stabilize the joint to provide relief and slow the progression of tricompartmental osteoarthritis.

Additional techniques for managing this condition and its progression:

• Take advantage of low-impact exercises (like tai chi or swimming)
• Avoid high-impact activities such as running
• Apply hot or cold compresses
• Undergo physical therapy
• Try cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Consider surgery if indicated by a physician

How Can a Brace Help Me?

Elite Medical Supply is proud to offer brace support to help you manage the challenges of tricompartmental osteoarthritis.

The Game Changer OA knee brace offers superior relief for osteoarthritic pain. The single upright hinge design is comfortable, lightweight, and functional. The Game Changer treats both medial and lateral knee pain while being easy to apply. Contact us today if you are interested in learning more about the Game Changer OA knee brace.

Elite Medical Supply is a Medicare contract supplier of back, knee, and extremity braces. Our company's expert staff will closely coordinate with your healthcare provider to provide you with the right brace or pain management solution. We are happy to take care of the paperwork for you. Contact us to find answers to your bracing needs.