Categories
Uncategorized

Do I Need a Knee Brace? When and Why You Might Need One for Pain Relief and Stability

Is a Knee Brace Right for Me? When should I use a knee brace for pain relief and stability? 

Most people wonder when to use a knee brace for pain relient and stability. There are many situations when a knee brace can benefit patients. The goals can differ from decreasing pain, improving alignment and/or improving performance.

Common Conditions Treated with Knee Braces:

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Ligament instability

  • Patellofemoral instability

What is the difference between a knee brace I can buy online and a custom knee brace from a Certified Orthotist?

A Certified Orthotist understands and can explain the physics and biomechanics of the knee brace options. They will pick the correct orthosis for you based on your needs and activities. Not only will you get a customized knee brace, but one that is fitted by a trained orthotist has the potential to qualify for funding opportunities.

Also, a Certified Orthotist has the necessary skills to modify and adjust the brace to fit you if changes are needed; for example, if your leg changes shape or size. And, a Certified Orthotist has access to warranties with custom braces.

Is there funding for knee braces?

Access to funding can be determined once the Certified Orthotist has completed an assessment. Please investigate your personal health benefits prior to your assessment. If your personal health benefits do not pay the full cost of the knee orthosis, you may be eligible for government funding if you meet the criteria (identified by the Alberta Aids to Daily Living Program).

What is the process for booking an appointment at Group23?

Group 23 Sports Medicine makes it easy to book an appointment with a Certified Orthotist. Before booking, please have a prescription (no older than three months) and an imaging report (such as an X-ray) ready. You can call the main booking line 403-284-4040 or book online.

Learn more about our services at Group23.

Shea Quilichini

Physiotherapist
BSc, MScPT, CGIMS

Born and raised in Calgary, Shea’s interest in physiotherapy began after completing his undergraduate degree in Kinesiology at the University of Calgary. After working for several years as a kinesiologist, he went on to earn his Master’s in Physiotherapy from McMaster University.
 
Since graduating, Shea has gained clinical experience in sport medicine and orthopaedic settings, including the McMaster Sport Medicine Clinic, the University of Calgary, and a specialized hip and hockey clinic in Oakville. He has completed his Certificate in Gunn Intramuscular Stimulation (GunnIMS) through the University of British Columbia and his Intermediate Diploma in Manual and Manipulative Therapy through the Orthopaedic Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Shea is registered with the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta and is on both the spinal manipulation and dry needling rosters.
 
Shea treats a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, with a special focus on low back, hip, knee, neck and nerve pain.  His approach combines hands-on therapy, targeted exercise, and practical education to help patients recover and build lasting resilience. Each treatment plan is individualized, whether the goal is managing a new injury or working through persistent pain.  As a musician himself, Shea also enjoys working with musicians, as well as recreational and competitive athletes, helping them return to their highest level of function with confidence.
 
Outside the clinic, Shea enjoys exploring the Rockies and spending time in the backcountry, staying active year-round. He values time with friends and family,  trying new restaurants around the city, and almost always has a creative project underway – feel free to ask him what he’s building next!
Claire Froese

Physiotherapist
MScPT

Claire graduated with a Masters of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Alberta in Edmonton in 2020. 

 

Much of Claire’s passion for, and interest in, the field of physiotherapy and rehabilitation came from her own personal journey as an athlete in sport. She played soccer at a high level throughout her junior high and high school years and then went on to play CIS university level soccer as well. During those years she was inspired by the difference that a number of physiotherapists and athletic therapists made in her own life, both personally and from a rehabilitation perspective, and this encouraged her to ultimately pursue her own career in Physiotherapy.  

 

Claire is passionate about partnering with and motivating people to reach their highest potential, regardless of age, current activity level or ability. She wants to empower you to move better and feel stronger in your every day life and help you achieve your goals; whether that be returning to play as an athlete or someone looking to get back to their activities of daily living. Claire likes to incorporate education, manual therapy techniques and strength and conditioning principles into her practice in order to treat a variety of different injuries and conditions. 

 

In her free time, Claire can be found spending time with her family and friends. She loves the outdoors and specifically enjoys road biking, running and walking her dog. 

CHINOOK CLINIC NOW OPEN