Knee Support and Brace Information

You have been provided with a functional knee brace. Please follow the instructions given to you at your clinical appointment by your clinician and use the enclosed information for further reference.

What is the function of a knee brace?

A functional knee brace is a device that is fitted around the knee joint to offer stabilisation and support.

The aim of functional knee brace can be to:

•           Support weak muscles

•           Stabilise a fracture

•           Reduce joint pain

•           Improve daily function

•           Delay surgery

•           Improve the stability of either the patella (Kneecap) or the tibiofemoral joint (main knee hinge joint).

Your prescribed knee brace has been provided to meet your clinical needs for your use only and has been customised by your clinician to treat your presenting symptoms.

How often should I wear my device?

When provided with your prescribed knee brace, it is important to increase your wear time gradually. You will need to allow your muscles and skin to adjust to the new support and corrective forces being applied.

During your appointment your clinician will have provided advice on how often to wear your knee support, however we would generally suggest to start wearing your prescription for approximately 30 minutes, gradually increasing this period of time by 30 minutes each day.

How should I care for my device?

Your knee brace should be donned (worn) next to the skin and fastened firmly, but comfortably to ensure maximum support.

With any Orthotic device, hygiene is very important and by keeping your device clean, you will minimise your risk of skin irritation and bacterial build up.

If you have been prescribed a fabric support, this can be hand washed with mild detergent and left to dry naturally. Please do not tumble dry.

Please remember to monitor your skin for redness or inflammation daily. If you are concerned about any skin pressures or areas of tenderness, you should contact the Orthotics service or your clinician to arrange a review appointment.

How often will my prescription be reviewed?

Your functional knee brace will not be reviewed routinely, however we advise that you contact to arrange a review appointment if the following applies:

•           One year after supply for general review

•           You feel your device has worn and is no longer functioning    effectively

•           Your symptoms have returned

•           You are concerned about a change in your condition

How do I contact the Orthotics Service?

Orthotics Service
Monday to Friday
08:30-16:30
Telephone: 01429 522 471

Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints

Patient Experience Team (PET)

We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Patient Experience Team is here to try to resolve your concerns as quickly as possible. The office is based on the ground floor at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. If you would like to contact or request a copy of our PET leaflet, please contact:

Telephone: 01642 624719

Freephone: 0800 092 0084

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm

Email: [email protected]

Out of hours

Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.

Telephone: 01642 617617

Data protection and use of patient information

The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.

Telephone: 01642 383551

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet feedback

This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, University Hospital of North Tees, TS19 8PE or:

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet Reference: PIL1418
Date for Review: 10/05/2026