From the Guidelines
Open knee sleeves are indicated for patients with knee pain or instability during daily activities, as they provide compression, warmth, and proprioceptive feedback, and are particularly beneficial for those with mild osteoarthritis, patellar tracking issues, or minor ligament sprains. According to the EULAR recommendations for the health professional's approach to pain management in inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis 1, orthotics such as sleeves can be offered to patients with pain during activities of daily living that impedes functioning. The use of orthotics, including knee sleeves, is also supported by the EULAR recommendations for the non-pharmacological core management of hip and knee osteoarthritis 1, which suggests that treatment should be individualized according to the patient's wishes and expectations, and that orthotics can be considered as part of a package of care that includes core non-pharmacological approaches.
Some key points to consider when using open knee sleeves include:
- They are most suitable for active individuals who need light support during exercise, sports, or daily activities without significant restriction of movement
- They should be worn during activities that cause discomfort but can typically be removed during rest periods
- For optimal benefit, the sleeve should fit snugly but not restrict circulation, and should be positioned with the patella opening directly over the kneecap
- If knee pain is severe, accompanied by significant swelling, or persists despite using a sleeve, medical evaluation is recommended as more substantial support or treatment may be necessary
It is also important to note that the use of open knee sleeves should be part of a comprehensive management plan that includes education, exercise, and other non-pharmacological approaches, as recommended by the EULAR guidelines 1. Additionally, the patient's individual needs and preferences should be taken into account when considering the use of orthotics, including knee sleeves.
From the Research
Indications for Open Knee Sleeve
The indications for open knee sleeve are varied and depend on the specific condition being treated. Some of the common indications include:
- Knee osteoarthritis: Open knee sleeves can be used to reduce pain and improve function in patients with knee osteoarthritis 2.
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome: Open knee sleeves can be used to help patients manage patellofemoral pain syndrome by reducing strain on the patellofemoral and quadriceps tendons while stabilizing the patella 2.
- Knee pain and laxity: Rehabilitative compression sleeves, also known as knee sleeves, can be used to assist patients suffering from knee pain and laxity 2.
- Postoperative analgesia: Intravenous acetaminophen can be used for postoperative analgesia in primary total knee arthroplasty, which may be related to the use of open knee sleeves 3.
Conditions Treated with Open Knee Sleeve
Open knee sleeves can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis (OA) 2, 4, 5
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome 2, 4
- Meniscal tears 4
- Knee ligament sprains and tears 6
- Postoperative pain and inflammation 3
Benefits of Open Knee Sleeve
The benefits of open knee sleeve include:
- Reduced pain and improved function in patients with knee osteoarthritis 2
- Improved proprioception across the knee joint 2
- Reduced strain on the patellofemoral and quadriceps tendons while stabilizing the patella 2
- Assistance with knee pain and laxity 2
- Reduced opioid requirements in the first 24 hours following primary total knee arthroplasty 3