The knee joint has two main compartments — medial (inner) and lateral (outer). In unicompartmental OA, cartilage breakdown tends to concentrate on one side, causing pain, stiffness, and a gradual change in leg alignment.

The Unloader X uses a 3-point leverage system to apply a gentle corrective force across the knee, effectively tilting the joint slightly to take pressure off the worn compartment. This reduces the load through damaged cartilage with every step.

The brace features:

• A low-profile, lightweight carbon composite frame
• Össur’s Sensil silicone lining for secure, skin-friendly grip without straps digging in
• Dial-in fit system — easily adjustable offloading force that the patient can control
• Anatomically contoured design for walking, stairs, and daily activity
• Available in medial and lateral configurations

The Unloader X is indicated for patients presenting with:

Primary Indication

• Unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis — medial or lateral compartment, confirmed on imaging (X-ray or MRI)
• Varus or valgus malalignment contributing to compartmental loading
• Mild to moderate OA (Kellgren-Lawrence Grade I–III) with joint space remaining

Symptom Profile

• Medial or lateral joint line pain with activity
• Pain and stiffness aggravated by weight-bearing, walking, stairs, or prolonged standing
• Morning stiffness settling within 30 minutes
• Swelling or aching after activity

Patient Profile

• Patients who want to remain active but are limited by knee pain
• Those seeking to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery
• Post-surgical patients in the early recovery phase where offloading is therapeutically indicated
• Patients who have not responded adequately to conservative care alone (analgesia, physiotherapy, weight management)
• Active individuals — including older adults wanting to maintain walking, gardening, golf, or recreational activity

At Cornerstone Medical Group

Unloader knee bracing at Cornerstone is assessed and fitted by a clinician, not simply supplied off the shelf. A proper fitting involves:

1. Confirming the correct clinical indication from history, examination, and imaging
2. Measuring for the correct size and configuration (medial vs lateral offload)
3. Educating the patient on correct application, adjustment, and wear schedule
4. Integrating the brace into a broader management plan — which may include chiropractic, exercise rehabilitation, laser therapy, or spinal/joint decompression where relevant
5. Follow-up to review fit, comfort, and clinical response