This study aimed to evaluate the immediate effects of two different types of elastic neoprene knee sleeves on balance and pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). One knee sleeve was a standard elastic neoprene sleeve, while the other had four metal supports for additional stability.

In this randomized controlled study, 60 patients (50 females, 10 males) diagnosed with KOA were divided into two groups:

Group 1: Wore a standard elastic neoprene knee sleeve Group 2: Wore a neoprene knee sleeve with four metal supports

Each participant underwent clinical assessments before and after wearing the knee sleeve. The following tests were used:

Balance Assessments:

Berg Balance Scale (BBS): Measures overall balance ability. Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test: Evaluates mobility and fall risk. Functional Reach Test (FRT): Assesses stability by measuring how far a person can reach forward.

Fall Index (Tetrax® posturography): Provides an objective measure of fall risk.

Pain Assessment:

Visual Analog Scale (VAS): Measures the intensity of pain.

Further long-term studies are necessary to determine whether these immediate benefits persist over time.

KOA is a common joint disorder that leads to pain, stiffness, and impaired balance, increasing the risk of falls. Knee sleeves are often used as supportive devices to provide stability and reduce pain. However, there is limited evidence on their effectiveness in improving balance and reducing pain in KOA patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Radiographic knee osteoarthritis grade 2 (mild) or 3 (moderate) according to Kellgren-Lawrence scale,
• Knee muscle strength of 4 and above and those who voluntarily participated in the study
• Signed the informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with arthroscopy of the knee joint within the last 1 year, knee and/or hip replacement,
• Limitation of joint range of motion,
• History of inflammatory rheumatic disease,
• History of vestibular and cerebellar disease,
• Visual loss of less than 2/10 in both eyes,
• History of diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system (Parkinson's disease, stroke, ataxia, dementia, multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropath etc.)