Knee Brace

[cdp71]

Does anyone with AMN use a knee brace to provide leg stability? It seems like a brace might help, but I have never tried one. Maybe I should just pick up a cheap one and give it go. Any thoughts are appreciated.

Thanks.

Chris

[lightnin77]

I do use a knee brace primarily on my left knee. I have two one with hinges one without. It helps me when I'm walking a lot In my opinion any kind of compression at primary joints is great

[kimmy in reply to lightnin77]

I have a leg brace ...a plate goes under my foot with a plastic strip that goes along the back of my leg then a Velcro strap that goes just under my knee... Very beneficial to my walking but a pain in the butt as in I had to buy a shoe size bigger !!!!! However I'm finding I have more pain around my knees so was wondering too about a knee brace

[jolocny Volunteer]

I just got back from a day of appointments with doctors at KKI (annual). My knees are really buckling inward, my ankles are starting as well. They have me in PT to strengthen my quads, which the PT said would help to realign the joints. They've also suggested that I be fitted for 'carbon fiber braces' for my ankles - again, to put the joints in better position. These sound like those mentioned by Kimmy.

I had been in an ankle brace that KKI docs described as "an antique" - had to go up 2 shoe sizes to wear it! Needless to say, it hasn't been worn much!

I think trying one of the OTC braces would give you an idea of how a custom-built orthotic would help.

Good luck!

[cdp71]

Thanks for the info. Do many people go to KKI for physical evaluations? The few people that I have talked to in Atlanta have been clueless and unable to provide me strategies to strengthen my ever weakening legs. I would be willing to go to Baltimore if I could see a tangible benefit.

[julie_ in reply to cdp71]

I'm in NYC. I was diagnosed by my neurologist but that was as far as that goes. He doesn't treat ALD/AMN. I went KKI in December 2014 and it was refreshing to speak with medical professionals who understood everything I said. If you haven't been, it could be helpful. There are limited spots available, so you should contact them to see what's available. Kim Hollandsworth is the RN there who can explain what you can expect from your visit. Her email is [e-mail].

[Pine_Knot]

I have tried a brace but it tired my leg muscles tremendously.