Which aids can you use against osteoarthritis?

A brace, splint or bandage for your wrist, hand or thumb provides rest, stability and support for complaints such as osteoarthritis, rheumatism (rheumatoid arthritis) or a broken wrist. What exactly is osteoarthritis? How common is osteoarthritis? What can I do about osteoarthritis? Is a brace for me? Which brace is the best? Where can I find such an ‘osteoarthritis’ brace? Will a brace be reimbursed by my health insurance? These are all questions that will be addressed in this blog…

What is ‘osteoarthritis’?

Osteoarthritis is a rheumatic disease of the posture and musculoskeletal system. This condition occurs on its own or develops as a result of inflammation of the joints or weak ligaments. When diagnosed with osteoarthritis, many people think of worn-out joints or bones. ‘I have a worn knee’ or ‘my wrist is worn out’ are common complaints within healthcare. This is not quite correct. The joint is not worn out, there has been a change in the joint.

A bit of theory: a joint is a connection between two bone parts. Cartilage sits against the joint surface of the bone. This cartilage is a smooth tissue that ensures the ‘smooth’ movement of a joint. In osteoarthritis, this cartilage is deformed; it has become thinner and softer. This ensures that the joints move less easily, which is inherent to a painful and stiff feeling in the joints.

How common is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common musculoskeletal rheumatic disease. Osteoarthritis is most common in:

• People over 45 years old,
• In women
• In people who are overweight (obese),
• In people who put a lot of strain on their body and
• In people with a common family history of osteoarthritis

I have osteoarthritis; what now?

The course of osteoarthritis differs per person and per joint. It may be that there are many complaints, but it is also possible that few complaints are experienced. What helps to better deal with osteoarthritis is by being informed and advised by a specialist. They provide advice regarding medication (doctor), exercise therapy ( physiotherapist ) and medical & orthopedic aids ( ProBrace ).

A brace for osteoarthritis

You can use a brace to support your joint . Do you have osteoarthritis in your wrist ? Then choose a wrist brace . Do you have osteoarthritis in your thumb? Then choose a thumb brace . Etc. However, are you infirm? Do you feel insecure while walking? Then elbow crutches, a walker or a walking stick can also offer you a solution.

crutches, a walker, a walking stick or a wrist, thumb or knee brace , it is wise to first ask for information and advice from a specialist . Get information and advice here completely free of charge from a ProBrace specialist .

Where can I buy a brace?

First of all, you can get information and advice from a specialist. This can be your doctor, general practitioner, paramedical specialist (physio, ergo, etc.) or a specialist from ProBrace . They are qualified, have experience and the know-how of osteoarthritis and what the right treatment is for people with osteoarthritis. If you would like to know something specific for medical & orthopedic aids ( braces , bandages, crutches, walking sticks, rollators, etc.), we recommend that you contact one of our specialists . You can do this by sending an e-mail to info@probrace.nl or by calling +31 (0)85 4011 911.

Will I be reimbursed for a brace?

For information about reimbursements for braces , bandages and other medical & orthopedic aids , we refer you to the reimbursement page of Leuk orthopedics.

( Thuisarts.nl , 2017)

( public health care.info , 2017)

( rheumatoid arthritis fund , 2017 ).