Knee brace: types, selection criteria, price. Rules for choosing a knee pad for arthrosis and its use Selection of product material

The knee joint is one of the strongest in the human skeleton, so huge loads are placed on it, which it may not be able to handle. To restore knee function and provide the necessary mobility lower limbs a knee orthosis is used. When does a doctor recommend using an orthopedic accessory and what contraindications may not allow wearing an orthosis? What types are offered by domestic and foreign manufacturers? How to choose and wear a knee pad? We offer answers to all these questions, and along with them, customer evaluations of the effectiveness of specific knee brace models.

When you need a knee brace

The simple design of the orthosis and a wide variety of models make this product multifunctional. It is used for injuries and after operations, for chronic diseases and for prevention... Dislocations, sprains, inflammation, joint instability - this is not a complete list of cases when the help of a knee orthosis will be indispensable.

For minor injuries, arthrosis and arthritis, an elastic band is used, for more serious problems - a rigid knee orthosis.

Attention! Only a doctor can prescribe the wearing of an orthopedic brace. Self-selection of products is strictly prohibited!

Types of knee orthoses

The modern market offers a huge selection of knee braces.

Soft knee orthoses

The most popular are elastic soft knee braces. There are:

closed type, which fix the patella and have a warming effect; often used during training by track and field athletes, as well as during prolonged walking;
open type with adjustable tension - used during rehabilitation after sprains, in the presence of residual pain during exacerbation of arthritis; can be recommended after trauma to develop patient care;
open type with lateral spiral stiffeners - most often used when inflammatory diseases and knee pain during flexion, as well as to prevent injury.

On a note! Elastic orthoses are made of neoprene, nylon, spandex, elastin and cotton. Before purchasing, make sure you are not allergic to the components in the product.

A large assortment is presented in the category of articulated knee pads. They are made of plastic, metal or fabric, and the individual elements of the product are connected by means of hinges. This leg brace allows you to adjust the degree of mobility of the knee joint.

The articulated knee brace has the following functions:

corrective;
compensatory (maintains the functionality of the injured joint);
fixing (provides a different degree of joint mobility or its complete immobility);
unloading (relieves excessive stress on the joint and muscle tissue).

The adjustable split knee pad with hinges is used more often after surgery and serious injuries, when the amplitude of motion of the joint needs to be changed during the recovery process. The hinges help you set the desired degree from 0 to 90.

Separately, it should be said about the patella orthosis. Its pillows put pressure on the tendons and distribute the load evenly on them, resulting in less pain. This accessory is used for chronic diseases of the patella, heavy physical exertion, after mild subluxations.

Indications and contraindications for use

There are many cases of using a knee brace - these are chronic diseases, bruises, serious injuries and sprains, and prevention. Based on the medical history, the doctor selects the desired model.

An elastic knee pad with easy fixation is used for arthritis, synovitis, exacerbations of arthrosis, bursitis, on initial stage gonarthrosis, with patellofemoral syndrome.
A knee brace with stiffening ribs is prescribed for ligamentosis, bursitis, synovitis, deforming arthrosis, rheumatism and arthritis, with edema, if there is no contraindication for warming, osteochondropathy of the tibial tuberosity.
The splint helps with osteochondropathy, Koenig's disease, deforming arthrosis, hallux valgus, hemarthrosis, exacerbations of synovitis and arthrosis, bursitis, joint damage.
A semi-rigid knee orthosis with reinforced fixation is worn in case of patellofemoral pain syndrome, arthrosis and arthritis, with contracture of the knee joint, deforming osteoarthritis, valgus deviation, paralysis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Koening's disease.
A kneecap orthosis is indicated for the "jumper's knee", Osgood-Schlatter disease and patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Contraindications for a knee orthosis can be edema of the lower extremities, varicose veins, dermatitis with inflammation in the places where the orthopedic accessory fits.

Attention! The list of contraindications can be expanded by the doctor based on the patient's specific medical history.

How to choose an orthosis

The main parameter that is important when choosing a knee pad is the knee girth... To more accurately select the model, it will not be superfluous to measure the volumes from above and below at a distance of 15 cm from the knee.

Of course, cotton is the most comfortable material, but its main problem is that it does not stretch at all. Therefore, manufacturers combine it with elastic fibers.

You should be careful when buying a neoprene knee pad. It fixes the knee well and has a warming effect, but it can cause an allergic reaction. If you want to buy a "indestructible" knee pad, then choose a model made of nylon. If you need a perfectly shaped leg and good breathability, then look at spandex. If you need a knee pad that is well ventilated and does not warm, then your choice is elastane (lycra).

Attention! Be sure to try on the knee pad in orthopedic salon... And don't just put on and take off after 2 seconds. Walk in it, jump (if health allows), sit down. The product must be comfortable!

How to use the knee pad

The main rule to remember is that elastic orthoses cannot be worn all the time, unlike articulated ones, which the doctor may recommend to leave overnight.
The mode of wearing the knee brace is determined by the doctor, but the total time of using the elastic brace cannot exceed 8 hours, with 15-20 minute breaks every 2-3 hours.
Elastic neoprene bandages should not be left overnight.
Some models of orthoses are equipped with silicone inserts inside that do not allow the product to slide on the skin. This function is especially useful if the mobility is not limited and the brace is used, for example, during sports training.

Arthrosis of the knee joint is manifested by poor leg mobility and discomfort while walking. Unpleasant symptoms are relieved with the help drug therapy... Along with drugs, physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises and orthopedic devices are used. Special knee pads for arthrosis help to improve motor functions, prevent joint deformation. We will figure out how to choose the right product from a variety of designs and sizes for the most effective knee fixation.

Features of the impact of knee pads in arthrosis of the knee joint

Gonarthrosis is a chronic disease of the knee joint, accompanied by the destruction of cartilage and deformation of the entire articular-ligamentous apparatus. The disease forms gradually against the background of a sedentary lifestyle, large physical activity, age-related wear of the body. The knee is one of the most mobile joints, therefore it most often suffers from various disorders.

Arthritic lesion leads to pain, decreased motor ability of the limb, the risk of injury and significant deformation of the joints. To alleviate the condition and slow down the progression of the disease, a knee pad (orthosis, bandage, retainer) is used.

Knee pads for arthrosis of the knee joint reduce the load on the affected area, reduce pain and restore mobility to the patient

This orthopedic device is designed to:

reduce pain when moving;
prevent inter-articular friction;
reduce loads and pressure;
ensure correct knee position;
prevent inflammatory changes in tissues;
increase physical activity.

Different in configuration, size, shape, material and structure of the product, you can choose the most comfortable and useful knee pad for individual indications. Such treatment is prescribed by the attending orthopedic doctor who will help you make the right choice.

The effectiveness and benefits of using a bandage

Knee orthoses for arthrosis are an irreplaceable part of the complex of rehabilitation and support measures. They are used not only for deforming articular pathology. They help a healthy person to evenly distribute the load during sports activities and accelerate recovery from injury.

The high efficiency of knee pads is proven by clinical trials and positive patient reviews:

reliably fix the joint, reducing the load on bone tissue, muscles, ligaments, blood vessels and the entire musculoskeletal system;
normalize local blood circulation and metabolic processes, preventing inflammation, swelling, atherosclerotic and congestion;
provide additional protection to the knee to avoid dislocations, fractures, cracks, sprains against a background of significant activity;
increase the motor capabilities of the leg and expand the range of motion without the risk of complications;
reduce pain and relapse rate by reducing the amount of medications taken (analgesics, NSAIDs, corticoids);
prevent the development of cervical and vertebral osteoarthritis due to immobilization of the limb and the transfer of the entire load on the spinal column.

An orthopedic fixation device does not replace medical therapy for gonarthrosis and does not cure the disease. It acts as an important aid in the treatment and rehabilitation process.

Wearing a knee pad accelerates joint recovery after surgery

Classification of orthopedic knee pads for arthrosis

There are different types of knee supports. Depending on the degree of functional impairment and the complexity of the disease, a specific product is selected.

For gonarthrosis, four main types of orthoses are used:

open;
closed;
articulated;
warming.

Within the categories there are different variants by rigidity, shape, material, additional details. Each type of knee pads has its own purpose, so the choice must be approached responsibly. The wrong purchase can not only fail to bring desired result, but also seriously harm health.

Open orthosis with stiffeners

Open type knee pads are used for moderate to light pain localized in the knee. It is quite effective after an injury as a rehabilitation device.

It differs from the closed form in the type of construction:

has a small round cut in the middle;
equipped with a rigid spiral frame.

They are also made of elastic material, but thanks to special stiffening ribs they are well fixed on the leg and retain their shape.

When wearing a knee pad, swelling, inflammation, pain syndrome

This type of knee pad is designed to relieve pain during flexion movements of the leg, particularly when descending and climbing stairs or squats. The best option for using an open knee bandage for arthrosis is the prevention of pain and inflammatory disorders in the early stages of the disease.

Open tension retainer

A kind of open knee brace equipped with elastic braces. With the help of special fasteners, it is possible to adjust the tension level of the bandage. They are located at the top and bottom of the kneecap, which makes it possible to fix the bandage on the leg as conveniently as possible.

It is used as an alternative to a closed device in the early stages of gonarthrosis. It is very effective in the postoperative period as a long-term rehabilitation device.

Closed bandage on the knee joint for arthrosis

The closed knee pad is designed to reduce stress on the joint. A universal product that is suitable not only for people with gonarthrosis, but also for athletes.

It is used when:

slight discomfort in the knee in the early stages of the disease;
pains of a diffuse nature that cannot be accurately localized;
unclear origin of pathological disorders.

They usually wear it for a short time.

The knee bandage for arthrosis is a classic bandage that completely covers the knee with the capture of the lower and upper legs. It is made of elastic fabric that allows you to freely move your leg and gently fix the joints. Sometimes equipped with a thin layer of insulation and clasps.

The main task of this type of knee pad is to relieve unpleasant symptoms in a state of activity. Regular wearing allows you to lead a normal life without physical limitations.

Articulated knee pads for arthrosis of the knee joint

The articulated knee pad is a universal orthosis for all forms of arthrosis. It is actively used for severe and persistent pain syndrome. Effective for everyday wear with significant changes in limb functionality.

At first glance, the device looks like an open bandage with braces. But if you look closely, outwardly it looks more massive. The main difference lies in the presence on the sides, in the area of \u200b\u200bthe knee bending, rigid hinges - mechanisms with a movable connection of two parts.

They allow:

it is convenient to perform flexion-extension movements of small amplitude;
reduce the stress on the joint when walking;
fix the knee in the anatomically correct and most comfortable position.

The hinge structure is unnecessary in the early stages of arthrosis, but is very necessary in the later stages to prevent bone deformation and injury. In addition, this type of bandage is recommended in the postoperative and post-traumatic period.

Therapeutic knee pads are used in advanced stages of knee arthrosis, when the patient's movement is limited and severe pain is observed

Orthopedic models with thermal effect

The warming type of knee pads has a pronounced thermal function, deeply warms up the soft tissues in the knee area.

With the development of arthrosis, heat contributes to:

improving microcirculation;
decrease in pain sensitivity;
increasing the elasticity of cartilage tissue;
stimulation of metabolic processes;
normalization of general well-being.

Externally, the design of the product differs from the previous options due to the presence of a coolant inside.

Depending on this, there are four subspecies of warming bandages:

Knee pads with a thermal effect are worn mainly during an exacerbation of gonarthrosis under constant medical supervision.

Knee pads for arthrosis of the knee joint: how to choose the right device

Choosing a knee brace is not an easy task, but it can be done. Initially, it is necessary to consult a doctor who will advise the correct product according to the stage of the disease. After determining all the individual characteristics, you can proceed to the purchase.

It is important to consider:

stiffness of the orthopedic structure - after joint surgery and initial stage soft fixation is shown, with severe deformation, a tight one is used;
the intensity of pain - for periodic discomfort during movement, a simple open or closed option is suitable, with severe pain, a hinged bandage is needed;
the cause of articular disorders - in chronic progressive arthrosis, a closed type of bandage with a heating effect is shown, post-traumatic pathology requires a universal hinged orthosis;

To reach maximum effect from the use of the product, you must remember how to wear the structure correctly

sensitivity to various materials - people suffering from allergic reactions on natural fabrics, it is better to abandon a knee pad based on animal hair and give preference to synthetic or cotton options, in other cases you can take any convenient bandage;
the size of the product by individual measurements - a large retainer will dangle on the knee and will not have any positive effect, it will squeeze the leg too tight, worsen blood flow and increase pain.

Purchase a quality knee pad with medicinal properties available only in a pharmacy or a specialized medical store. Knee pads for arthrosis of the knee joint, how to choose, you can ask a specialist.

We select the size

The positive result of wearing a bandage depends largely on its size. The choice of the most suitable and convenient device is carried out on the basis of leg measurements. Individual parameters are determined at a doctor's appointment or at home. To do this, you need to measure the circumference of the knee joint in the middle of the cup, as well as the circumference of the leg 10-15 cm above and below the knee. Compare the obtained data with the size grid of the knee pads.

Most manufacturers use a unified table:

The size grid of different manufacturers, especially foreign ones, may differ. It is better to make a purchase with the help of a store consultant who will help you make the right choice.

Wearing the product does not cancel reception drugs, it only performs auxiliary functions in the treatment

Varieties of materials for knee brace for arthrosis

Knee pads for arthrosis of the knee joint are made from various materials - natural breathable fabrics or high-strength synthetic fibers.

Used in production:

cotton is a natural, pleasant to the body, moisture- and breathable material, suitable for absolutely everyone and is in a low price category, but has one significant drawback in the form of a lack of elasticity and fragility;
wool - dog, camel, sheep wool is used as a warming component, it is preferable in chronic gonarthrosis for constant heating of the damaged area, when in contact with the skin, it releases useful substances, but is a highly allergenic material;
neoprene - a fully synthetic rubber-type material with high elastic properties and waterproofness, provides an optimal level of joint fixation, but it does not allow air to pass through, it is recommended to wear cotton underwear under the bottom;
spandex, elastane, polyester, lycra, nylon - artificial fabrics with good elasticity and wear resistance, hassle-free in use and maintenance, their structures are reliable, breathable, do not create a steam effect under the bandage.

Warming devices are great for pain relief, but many people are allergic to wool. In this case, synthetic neoprene or nylon is preferred, but they are relatively expensive. Therefore, the material of the knee brace for arthrosis is selected according to individual characteristics. There are no universal recommendations.

The knee pad must be sized appropriately

Tips for wearing and caring for orthopedic knee pads

Correct use of the knee brace is the key to obtaining the expected therapeutic result and long service life of the product.

comply with the time frame within 3 hours a day, unless otherwise provided by a medical prescription;
do not overtighten the clamps in order to avoid deterioration of blood circulation and increased pain;
in the event of a skin allergy, urgently choose another type of material;
if the condition of the knee and health worsens, remove the bandage and consult a doctor;
the duration of wearing is determined individually according to the clinical picture;
do not give up drug therapy, because the knee pad does not replace and in no way excludes complex treatment arthrosis;
carefully take care of the product - wash by hand in water not higher than 40 °, do not twist, dry naturally without using heaters;
do not use after the loss of elastic and healing qualities, an anatomically incorrect device can worsen the condition.

The advisability of using a knee pad and the treatment regimen is determined by a specialist. Self-help should not be done to avoid complications.

Price category

The cost of a knee brace varies significantly depending on the complexity of the design, material, manufacturer.

Average prices vary within:

600-1200 rubles - products with warming properties;
1 thousand rubles for simple models of open knee pads;
2 thousand rubles - with stiffeners;
8000-10000 rub. - articulated;
6000-8000 p. - with strong hold;
15-20 thousand rubles - adjustable orthoses.

In order not to waste money, it is better to first consult with a doctor and together choose an orthopedic knee pad for arthrosis that is optimal in quality and price.

The knee joint is one of the strongest in our skeleton. He constantly experiences huge loads, which, at times, cannot cope with.

A knee brace is often used to restore knee function and ensure smooth movement of the lower limbs.

Knee support to restore knee function

Brace Is a multifunctional orthopedic product that is used for various injuries, chronic diseases, after, for prevention and in many other cases. Sprains, dislocations, instability, inflammation and much more - this is when the help of a knee brace is indispensable.

Before deciding to use a retainer, you must seek the advice of a phlebologist or angiosurgeon.

These specialists are engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of veins and blood vessels. Only after their approval can you begin to select the required knee pad.
Retainers are shown:

After removing the cast from the knee. In this case, the knee pad has a thermal and micromassage effect, improves metabolic processes and restores blood circulation;
After surgery. The product not only warms up the operation site, but also reduces the load during any physical activity;
With inflammatory processes. The orthosis significantly reduces pain;
In case of damage;
With kneecap instability;
To recover from injuries of various kinds;
With Schlatter's disease, which is characterized by pathological condition lesions of the tibial cartilage;
With preventive measures for athletes;
Any injury or strain to the cruciate and lateral ligaments. In this case, sports knee orthoses are used to ensure stable functioning.

Types of knee braces

Modern knee braces come in many types and shapes. Let's consider the main differences and purposes.
Depending on the type of construction, knee pads are divided into:

By function, knee pads are:

Fixing. They are characterized by the maximum level of rigidity. Perfectly hold the damaged area in the desired position. A strong knee brace is able to correct misalignment or deformity;
Corrective. In turn, they are divided into rigid or semi-rigid. Know how to change the degree or form of fixation. Such a knee pad is used for fractures with displacement, in order to change the shape, trauma to the meniscus, etc.

Also an orthopedic knee orthosis depending on the degree of fixation, it happens:

Tough. Such a knee pad makes the damaged area absolutely immobile or significantly restricts possible movements. It can serve as an excellent alternative to plaster. The rigid knee brace can be reinforced with a carbon frame, steel ribs, triaxial hinges or equipped with a buttress;
Semi-rigid. Often used after injuries and surgeries, in the case of chronic microtraumas of muscles, meniscus or ligaments. Some semi-rigid knee braces are reinforced with plastic stiffeners;
Soft. These knee pads are an elastic bandage, they are easy to fix and are great for sports. There are models that have a compression effect. A soft orthosis on the knee joint with holes is used for chronic inflammation, meniscus damage, pregnancy, etc.

Contraindications

The main contraindication to the use of a knee pad is any venous disease, inflammation, circulatory disorders, etc.
How to choose the right orthosis for the knee joint, see the video.

An important role is played by the size of orthoses on the knee joint - if they are incorrectly selected, then microcirculation of blood may be disrupted and blood clots will appear.

An orthosis with hinges on the knee joint is contraindicated for edema and dermatitis. You should be careful when using children's knee orthoses, it is better to order such models individually, taking into account all the needs of the child.

It is better to order children's orthoses individually

Prices and manufacturers

Nowadays, you can buy a knee brace, the price of which varies within 1500-12000 rubles. It all depends on the requirements and functions of the product. The following popular brands are presented on the modern market:

Orlett. The orlett knee brace is an articulated knee brace. Differs in reinforced plastic inserts. The straps are easily adjustable, each hinge is padded, and the cuffs are anti-allergic and non-irritating. Orlett orthosis on the knee joint is used after surgery, injuries, ligament ruptures, arthritis, chronic instability of the apparatus, etc.;
Genutrain. The genutrain knee brace has such advantages as the presence of special anatomical lateral splints, individual characteristics human, the presence of elastic tissue for muscle stabilization, massage effect, etc. Such orthoses for the knee joint for arthrosis are the most appropriate;
Fosta. The fosta knee brace has strong fixation and completely immobilizes the knee. Great for the postoperative period, dislocations, bruises, fractures. The knee pad allows air and moisture to pass through, and has a special opening for adequate ventilation.

Conclusion

Everyone will agree that free movement is a great value for any person. Therefore, it is very important to protect and preserve all systems of the body, especially those on which a significant load falls.

Correctly selected orthopedic products significantly alleviate the condition of the patient suffering from knee diseases and restore the ability to move.

The latch will allow you to lead a familiar life

The brace will help relieve pain, relieve stress on the knee, provide stability and lead a normal life freely. But it is worth considering that the knee pad must be purchased only in specialized stores in order to avoid a fake and not cause more harm to yourself. We also advise you to pay attention to reviews of knee braces, which may contain important information.

Arthrosis is a very common disease that affects the human musculoskeletal system. It is characterized by the presence of pathologies of the cartilage tissue of the knee joint, which progress rapidly. In a neglected form, the result can be complete atrophy of the joint. With this disease, patients can be recommended a knee orthosis for arthrosis. This orthopedic product provides an effective therapeutic effect that allows you to slow down the development of pathological processes or stop them. Also, orthoses can be recommended for use with knee injuries, after operations as a means of accelerating rehabilitation.

Whether orthosis is needed for arthrosis of the knee joint is always determined by the doctor, based on the state of the joint, taking into account possible contraindications, which are circulatory disorders of the lower extremities, including:

thrombophlebitis;
phlebeurysm;
vasculitis and other diseases.

Types of products

The functional effect of the bandage on the knee joint in arthrosis is different. Today, several varieties of these products are used, designed for different stages of pathology. Including knee orthoses for arthrosis are divided according to their functions:

fixing - ensure a stable correct position of the joint, prevent movements that contribute to the progression of the disease;
compensating - necessary to eliminate the vibration effect on the joint;
unloading - eliminate excessive load on the sore leg;
corrective - help to correct the existing deformity of the affected knee.

According to their design, hinged and non-hinged orthoses are distinguished. According to the principle of production, they can be serial, prefabricated-modular and individual, made for a specific person. Orthoses can be made in the form of a bandage, orthopedic splint or splint.

An important indicator is the level of stiffness of the knee pad, which largely determines its purpose. Bandages are produced rigid and semi-rigid. Products of the first type provide stronger fixation, which makes them an effective therapeutic agent. Semi-rigid orthoses are usually prescribed for therapeutic purposes.

According to their functional purpose, knee pads are of the following types:

Prophylactic - are prescribed for people with increased stress on the knee joints in connection with sports, work, lifestyle. Also recommended for early stage arthrosis.
Therapeutic and rehabilitation - designed to restore the function of the affected joint in various diseases, after injuries and surgical intervention.
Functional - prescribed to patients with irreversible pathological changes in the joint to restore its functions.

Knee pads materials

Understanding which orthosis is better for knee arthrosis, one cannot but consider the materials from which these orthopedic products are produced. Depend on them functional characteristics knee pad and the comfort of wearing it.

The main materials used in the manufacture of knee braces are the following:

Cotton. Natural material that is non-allergenic and non-irritating to the skin. These qualities allow the retainer to be worn for a long time. The material does not stretch well, so the orthosis provides moderate fixation.
Elastane (lycra). A material with high elasticity, which, moreover, has a "cooling" effect. It is used for dynamic fixation, which maintains a sufficiently high joint mobility.
Spandex. High elasticity material. Provides effective hold. In addition, the material is highly breathable, which ensures a comfortable wearing of the knee pad.
Neoprene. High density material that provides a secure fit for the knee joint, limiting unwanted movement. Does not cause excessive compression. When worn for a long time, some patients may experience allergic manifestations.
Nylon. Usually used in combination with other types of fibers. Gives the orthoses increased strength, resistance to deformation and stretching, which increases its service life.

Selection features

The selection of orthopedic products must be carried out in conjunction with the attending physician. However, patients should also have an idea of \u200b\u200bhow to choose an orthosis for knee arthrosis.

The determining factors in the appointment of a knee pad are the stage of arthrosis and the general condition of the joint. In this case, the key parameter is the degree of fixation that the product provides. It can be as follows:

Easy fixation. The brace supports the knee and keeps it almost completely mobile. It is prescribed at an early stage of arthrosis.
Medium fixation. The knee pad has stiffening ribs, with the help of which unwanted joint mobility is limited. It is prescribed in the absence of irreversible changes in the joint at the first or second stage of arthrosis.
Strong hold. Joint mobility is almost completely limited. A knee pad of this type is prescribed at 3 stages of arthrosis and during postoperative rehabilitation.

It is also important to choose the right size. Its selection is carried out in accordance with the girth of the patella. Additionally, the properties of the materials are taken into account, which will ensure the maximum therapeutic effect and comfortable wearing of the orthosis.

Knee braces for arthrosis are a necessary measure that will help partially restore joint health and relieve pain. To prevent deterioration of the joints, it is necessary to unload them as much as possible.

For the treatment of arthrosis, an orthosis is needed, which fixes the position of the knee at the correct angle. As you recover, the flexion-extension angle can be increased. Osteoarthritis loves gradual treatmentso the increase in knee load should be gradual and gentle. Only in this way the joint and other segments of the knee will be able to fully recover.

In this they will be helped by the compression provided by the elastic tissue of the orthosis. Blood circulation and tissue trophism will improve, edema and painful sensations will gradually go away due to a decrease in the pressure of the edematous tissue on the injured area.

What degree of fixation is needed and at what stages

When the disease has just begun to develop, you can manage to stop its progress with the help of an elastic semi-rigid orthosis. It provides an average level of support, distributes compression well and relieves pain. The best option is a breathable fabric brace with lateral reinforcement ribs for a secure knee fit.
When the pain is not the first year and you understand that you have started the disease, then articulated orthoses will already be needed. They firmly hold the joint and reduce stress on it. Due to this, pain decreases and the disease ceases to actively develop.
When you understand that the knee is already beginning to deform and changing its volume, then a frame brace will be needed. Models with this design relieve the knee and are at a short distance from it. Most frame orthoses have a flexion angle adjustment.