Why treating the whole lower limb changes everything

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of knee pain we see, and for many people it can feel like a slow decline in mobility, comfort and confidence.

You might notice:

• Pain on the inside of your knee
• Stiffness in the morning or after sitting
• Difficulty walking longer distances
• Pain going up or down stairs

For some, it has been explained as “wear and tear”, with the suggestion that nothing much can be done beyond managing symptoms. But that is not the full picture.

The missing piece: understanding load

For many patients, especially those with pain on the inside of the knee, the issue is not just the joint itself. It is that too much load is being directed through one part of the knee, over and over again.

That is why simply resting, taking anti-inflammatories, or even doing exercises alone often is not enough.

To get real, lasting improvement, we need to change how your knee is being loaded.

Why a podiatrist plays a key role

This is where podiatry is often overlooked.

As podiatrists, we specialise in:

• How you walk
• How your foot and ankle function
• How forces travel up through your legs

Ultimately, this determines how your knee is being loaded every step you take. Your knee does not work in isolation. It is part of a chain from your hips to your feet.

Our 4-Step Knee Osteoarthritis Approach

At Custom Podiatry Services, we use a combined, evidence-informed approach to manage knee OA. The focus is on reducing pain, improving function and keeping you active.

1. Reducing pressure through the knee

Knee Unloader Bracing

For many people with knee OA, especially on the inner side, a key driver of pain is excess pressure through that part of the joint.

An unloader brace works by gently shifting that load away from the painful area.

Patients often notice:

• Reduced pain when walking
• Improved confidence with movement
• Ability to stay active for longer

2. Settling pain and supporting tissue health

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is one of the most effective tools we use for:

• Reducing pain
• Improving tissue quality
• Supporting the body’s natural healing response

3. Rebuilding strength and movement

GLA:D Exercise Therapy Program

Exercise is essential, but it needs to be the right type and at the right time.

We often recommend the GLA:D program, a structured and evidence-based approach to:

• Strengthening the knee
• Improving movement patterns
• Building long-term resilience

4. Improving lower limb mechanics

Footwear and Custom Orthotics

Your feet play a major role in how your knee is loaded.

By improving foot function and support, we can:

• Reduce strain on the knee
• Improve alignment
• Enhance overall movement efficiency

In some cases, custom orthotics are an important part of this.

Additional support

Western Medical Acupuncture

For some patients, acupuncture can be a helpful addition to:

• Reduce pain
• Relax surrounding muscles
• Support overall symptom management

Why treating just one part does not work

One of the biggest mistakes we see is treating knee OA with a single approach only.

For example:

• Exercises alone
• Medication alone
• Or simply waiting for it to improve

The best results come from addressing all contributing factors together:

• Load
• Pain
• Strength
• Biomechanics

Our goal: keep you moving

Our aim is simple.

To help you stay active, reduce pain and avoid unnecessary surgery where possible.

And importantly, to give you a clear plan, not just temporary relief.

Need help with knee pain?

If you are dealing with knee osteoarthritis or ongoing knee discomfort, our team can assess your movement and create a personalised plan to help you move better and feel better.