Assistive Devices for Joint Pain: Canes, Splints, and Supportive Footwear Explained

Why Assistive Devices Matter for Joint Pain

For older adults living with arthritis or chronic joint discomfort, assistive devices are not a sign of giving up — they are a practical strategy for maintaining independence and reducing daily strain. Each category of device works through a different mechanical principle: redistributing load, limiting harmful movement, or improving alignment underfoot.

Choosing the right device — and using it correctly — depends on which joints are affected, the severity of symptoms, and your daily activity demands. A healthcare provider or physical therapist is best placed to make specific recommendations. This article offers a clear overview of the most common options so you can have a better-informed conversation with your care team.

For broader strategies on protecting joints during daily tasks, see our practical framework for moving with less pain.

Canes: Offloading Weight-Bearing Joints

A cane reduces the load placed on a painful hip or knee by transferring a portion of body weight through the arm and into the ground. Research published in rheumatology literature consistently shows that a correctly sized and properly held cane can meaningfully reduce joint contact forces during walking.

Key Points

• Which hand: A cane is typically held in the hand opposite the affected joint — this distributes load more effectively than holding it on the same side.
• Correct height: When standing upright, the cane handle should reach your wrist crease. An ill-fitting cane can worsen posture and increase strain.
• Types: Standard single-tip canes suit most users. Quad canes (with a four-point base) provide greater stability for those with significant balance concerns.

Because body weight directly affects joint load, some individuals find that addressing weight alongside cane use amplifies the benefit — our article on weight and joint load explains the mechanical connection in detail.

Splints and Braces: Stabilizing Vulnerable Joints

Splints and braces limit excessive or harmful joint movement, reducing both pain and the risk of further strain. They are most commonly used for the wrist, thumb, knee, and ankle.

Common Types and Their Uses

Resting splints

Worn at night to hold a joint (often the wrist or hand) in a neutral, low-stress position. Frequently recommended for rheumatoid arthritis flares.

Functional braces

Worn during activity to support a joint while still allowing movement. Knee braces for osteoarthritis fall into this category and may help redistribute load across the joint.

Thumb splints

Support the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint at the base of the thumb — a common site of osteoarthritis pain that interferes with gripping and pinching.

Fit matters considerably. An ill-fitting splint can create pressure points or restrict circulation. A certified hand therapist or occupational therapist can ensure proper fit and provide guidance on wear schedules.

Pairing splint use with awareness of daily habits that strain joints can also help — see habits that quietly worsen joint pain for practical context.

Supportive Footwear and Orthotics: Building From the Ground Up

The foot is the foundation of the entire lower-body kinetic chain. Footwear that lacks adequate cushioning, arch support, or a stable sole can amplify stress at the ankle, knee, and hip with every step.

What to Look For in Supportive Footwear

• Cushioned midsole: Absorbs impact forces before they travel up the leg.
• Firm heel counter: The cup that surrounds the heel should resist inward collapse (overpronation), which stresses the knee.
• Rocker-bottom sole: A curved sole profile can reduce forefoot pressure, beneficial for those with metatarsal or toe-joint pain.
• Wide toe box: Accommodates swollen or deformed toes without added friction.

Orthotics

Orthotics are custom or prefabricated insoles inserted into footwear to improve alignment and redistribute plantar pressure. Custom orthotics, prescribed and fitted by a podiatrist, are shaped to the individual's foot. Prefabricated options are widely available and may suffice for mild alignment issues, though they are not a substitute for professional assessment.

For a fuller picture of managing joint discomfort day-to-day, explore our joint health habits hub.

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional — such as a physician, physical therapist, or occupational therapist — before selecting or using assistive devices for joint pain.