How does an OA (unloader) knee brace work?

An unloader knee brace redistributes weight away from the damaged compartment of the knee, realigns the joint, and reduces bone-on-bone pressure. This decreases pain and helps patients remain active.

Who benefits most from using an OA knee brace?

Adults with mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis, especially those with pain limited to one side of the knee (medial or lateral compartment), active individuals seeking non-surgical options, and patients hoping to delay surgery tend to benefit the most.

How long does it take to feel relief after wearing a knee brace?

Some patients report reduced pain within days to weeks of consistent use. Individual results vary depending on OA severity, brace fit, and complementary treatments like physical therapy.

Can a knee brace completely replace knee replacement surgery?

A brace cannot cure osteoarthritis or permanently restore lost cartilage. While it can delay or reduce the need for surgery for many people, those with severe, end-stage 'bone-on-bone' arthritis may eventually require replacement.

What makes the BCI TCO Knee Brace a good option?

The BCI TCO Knee Brace is a premium unloader-style brace engineered to correct knee alignment and offload painful compartments. It is lightweight, adjustable for daily comfort, and designed for prolonged wear to support activity and reduce pain.

Does insurance cover OA knee braces like the BCI TCO?

Coverage varies by insurer and plan. Some braces are covered when prescribed by a healthcare provider and documented as medically necessary. Check with the patient's insurance company and provide a prescription and relevant clinical notes to improve coverage chances.

How do I choose the right size and fit for an OA knee brace?

Follow the manufacturer's sizing chart and measure around the knee and thigh as instructed. A proper fit should be snug but not painful. If available, try a brace with adjustable straps or consult a fitter or physical therapist for the best fit.

What maintenance and care does a knee brace require?

Most braces should be cleaned per manufacturer instructions—typically hand-wash removable liners and air-dry. Inspect fasteners and hinges periodically, and replace worn pads or straps to maintain effectiveness.

How do I know if the BCI Knee Brace is right for me?

The BCI Knee Brace is designed for people with arthritis, sports injuries, or post-operative recovery needs. If you experience knee pain, instability, or swelling, this brace can provide targeted support and comfort.

Can I wear the BCI Knee Brace during sports or exercise?

Yes. The lightweight, breathable design and TCO compression technology allow you to wear it comfortably during workouts, training, or competition, while still providing stability and protection.

Does the BCI Knee Brace help with knee osteoarthritis?

Absolutely. The BCI Knee Brace reduces joint strain, improves alignment, and helps relieve pain caused by osteoarthritis so you can stay active with more confidence.

How should I clean my BCI Knee Brace?

Hand-wash with mild soap and cold water, then air dry. Avoid machine washing or drying to maintain fabric quality and structural integrity.

What sizes are available?

The brace comes in multiple sizes for a custom fit. Use our sizing guide to measure your knee circumference and select the right option before purchasing.

Can I wear it all day?

Yes, it’s designed for extended wear. The adjustable straps and breathable materials help prevent overheating or discomfort during daily activities.

Can a Knee Brace Delay Knee Replacement?

Q: Can a knee brace delay knee replacement?

Yes. For many patients with mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis, an OA (unloader) knee brace can reduce pain, improve function, and postpone the need for knee replacement surgery. Braces manage symptoms but do not reverse cartilage loss.

BCI Health Team
Sep 18
4 min read

Updated: Oct 10

Introduction

Knee pain caused by osteoarthritis is one of the most common reasons people consider knee replacement surgery. For many, the thought of surgery feels overwhelming—long recovery times, potential complications, and high costs often lead patients to ask: “Can a knee brace delay knee replacement?”

The short answer is yes, for many patients, an OA (osteoarthritis) knee brace, also called an Offloader TCO knee brace, can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and in some cases, delay or even avoid the need for surgery. Let’s explore how these braces work, who they benefit, and what you should know before making a decision.

A person with a oa knee brace hikes a trail in sunny, mountainous terrain, wearing a blue shirt and backpack. Green hills and clouds in background.

Understanding Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery is typically recommended for patients with severe arthritis or “bone-on-bone” joint damage. The procedure replaces damaged cartilage with an artificial joint, offering pain relief and restoring function.

While knee replacements are effective, they come with challenges:

Recovery can take 3–6 months or longer.
Risks include infection, stiffness, or revision surgery.
Implants last 10–20 years, meaning younger patients may need multiple surgeries in their lifetime.

For these reasons, many patients look for alternatives to knee replacement to preserve mobility and minimize surgical risks.

How an OA Knee Brace Works

An OA knee brace is specifically designed for osteoarthritis. Unlike general knee supports, it uses a unique mechanism to unload pressure from the affected compartment of the knee.

Here’s how it helps:

Redistributes weight: Shifts pressure from the arthritic side to the healthier side.
Reduces pain: Less bone-on-bone grinding means improved comfort during walking or standing.
Improves alignment: Supports the natural biomechanics of the knee.
Encourages activity: Patients can move with more confidence, delaying muscle loss and stiffness.

In many cases, patients feel relief within days or weeks of regular brace use.

Can a Knee Brace Really Delay Knee Replacement?

This is the key question. While no brace can reverse arthritis, evidence suggests that OA knee braces can delay the need for knee replacement surgery in certain patients.

What research shows:

Clinical studies demonstrate that unloader knee braces significantly reduce pain in mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis.
Many patients experience increased walking distance and daily activity levels.
By reducing pain and improving mobility, braces help patients postpone surgery for months or even years.

The reality:

For mild-to-moderate OA: Braces are highly effective in extending time before surgery.
For severe bone-on-bone arthritis: Braces may still reduce pain, but surgery may eventually be required.

In other words, a brace is not a cure, but it is a powerful tool in managing symptoms and buying time before invasive treatment.

Who Can Benefit Most from an OA Knee Brace?

OA knee braces are most beneficial for:

Adults over 45 with mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis.
Patients with pain localized to one side of the knee (medial or lateral compartment OA).
Active individuals who want to keep walking, working, or exercising.
Patients hoping to delay surgery due to age, health, or personal choice.

They may also help patients recovering from meniscus injuries or those with valgus/varus knee alignment issues.

Choosing the Right OA Knee Brace

Not all knee braces are created equal. Choosing the right type can make a big difference in effectiveness.

Types of OA Knee Braces:

Unloader knee brace – Redirects pressure away from the damaged compartment. Best for moderate OA.

Clinically Proved

BCI Unloader Knee Brace for Meniscus Tear, Osteoarthritis

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Hinged knee brace – Offers stability and mild unloading. Good for early-stage OA or active users.
Custom-fit knee brace – Provides maximum comfort and effectiveness, especially for long-term use, its high cost and takes long lead time to order one.
BCI TCO Knee Brace – A premium unloader brace designed to correct knee alignment and offload painful compartments. Lightweight, adjustable, and built for all-day wear, the BCI TCO Knee Brace is ideal for patients seeking pain relief while delaying surgery.

Clinically Proved

BCI Offloader TCO Knee Brace for Tricompartmental OA

From$399.99$259.97

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What to look for:

Comfort and adjustability – You’ll be wearing it daily.
Durability – Especially if you’re active.
Insurance coverage – Some braces may be covered if prescribed.
Lightweight design – Helps with long wear during daily activities.

Real-Life Example: Delaying Surgery with an OA Knee Brace

Many patients share stories of avoiding or postponing surgery thanks to a brace. For example:

A 58-year-old runner with medial knee OA used an unloader brace and was able to continue jogging without immediate surgery.
A 65-year-old office worker with bone-on-bone arthritis postponed knee replacement for over 2 years with daily brace use.

These cases highlight how braces can give patients more time, mobility, and control over their treatment journey.

Complementary Strategies to Delay Knee Replacement

While an OA knee brace is powerful, combining it with other strategies can maximize results:

Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles.
Weight management to reduce knee load.
Low-impact exercise (cycling, swimming, walking).
Anti-inflammatory diets and supplements.
Pain management therapies as recommended by a doctor.

Conclusion

So, can a knee brace delay knee replacement? Yes—especially if you have mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis. By unloading pressure, improving mobility, and reducing pain, an OA knee brace can help patients stay active and postpone surgery for months or even years.

If knee pain is interfering with your daily life, a brace may be a simple, effective, and non-surgical solution to buy you more time before making the decision for surgery.

👉 Looking for relief without surgery? The BCI TCO Knee Brace is designed to reduce pain, correct alignment, and help delay the need for knee replacement. Explore how it can support your mobility and independence today.