Tom Willemann Health Tips

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Does knee bracing make your muscles weak?

Tom Willemann |

In the case of osteoarthritis in appears it does not weaken the muscles surrounding the knee complex.
Details of recent study:

  • Used custom fitted valgus knee unloader brace
  • No loss of strength in six months of use
  • Average time doning wear 5hours/day
  • Small subgroup had negative effect in first two weeks
  • Most effective for mild to moderate osteoarthritis

This is one study so hopefully more will support these recent findings.  But it is the first to address a common question in the clinic.  Another intervention, depending on the location of  knee osteoarthritis is using medial heel wedges in addition or in place of using the knee unloader braces.  The medial heel wedge is something you must consult with a doctor or physical therapist because it can have a  negative impact depending on the location of the osteoarthritis.  The unloader knee braces are a  much more significant brace to wear but with the various side effects of medications to control inflammation I feel it is worth while conservative option.  If you have ever need advice please contact one of our paramus physical therapists regarding exercises to compliment this bracing.
 
Apex Orthopedic Rehabilitation in Wyckoff, NJ provides orthopedic and sports physical therapy services for the greater Ridgewood, Wyckoff, and Bergen County region.  This blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. The views expressed here are the author’s views and should be taken as suggestions. Always consult your doctor or healthcare practitioner before engaging in a physical therapy or rehabilitative program.
 
 
 

Tom Willemann

Tom Willemann

Tom Willemann is a premier physical therapist based out of Bergen County, New Jersey. He holds an MS in physical therapy from the University of Miami, is credentialed in the world-renowned McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), and holds an OCS (Orthopedic Clinical Specialist) certification. As of 2018, there are approximately 14,000 ABPTS certified specialists in the nation and less than 400 of them are located in the state of New Jersey. Tom is the owner and director of Apex Orthopedic Rehabilitation in Paramus. He opened the clinic, which specializes in spine and sports injury prevention, in 2004 after many years of experience in the field. Tom’s caring interest in others and his strong belief in continuity of care, combined with his clinic’s ability to find solutions for the most difficult orthopedic problems, have earned Apex Orthopedic Rehabilitation its excellent reputation with patients and medical professionals in northeastern New Jersey and beyond. A true “family man,” Tom takes pride in his clinic’s warm and welcoming environment.
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