Is a knee brace a good idea to get for someone with arthritis?

Might be...: There is a special brace called an unloading brace which may be beneficial to certain kinds of arthritis (osteoarthritis mostly). A stabilizing brace is only of use if the joint is unstable. A plain neoprene sleeve for compression may give a patient comfort, but not so much stability. Check with your doc as to which type may benefit this patient.

Can be helpful: Braces can be helpful to provide additional support, pain relief, control of swelling and warmth. Many doctors recommend braces as a part of an arthritis treatment program including rest exercise and medications.