Knee sleeve reduces pain for osteoarthritis patients

A wearable knee sleeve using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation developed by the University of Southampton aims to ease pain in osteoarthritis.

Knee sleeve eases pain among osteoarthritis patients

An electronic knee sleeve is helping people with osteoarthritis walk longer and ease pain, researchers say. The device was developed by the University of Southampton with input from physiotherapists and surgeons. It uses transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) with electrodes placed around the knee and connected to a compact control unit.

In a trial, participants reported reduced pain and stiffness and the ability to walk farther than before. The researchers say the sleeve could complement rehabilitation and standard care, though they caution that larger and longer studies are needed to confirm long term benefits and assess cost and practicality.

This study sits at the edge of wearable technology and pain care. If replicated, it could widen options for people who live with osteoarthritis, especially for those seeking non drug approaches.

However questions remain about access, battery life, hygiene, and how the sleeve fits with other treatments. Experts will want larger trials, independent replication, and cost analysis before broad use.

Highlights

Wearable tech in medicine will depend on solid evidence and fair access.