User Stories
Looking for some inspiration?
These personal stories come from people living with osteoarthritis who have found ways to keep doing what they love. Everyone’s experience is different, so it’s important to speak with your healthcare professional about what’s right for you.
Unloader One X Stories
Klaus' Unloader One X Story
“I’ve been using the Unloader One X for nearly a year and I’m happy to say that I have been able to continue doing all the activities I enjoy. In fact, I went to Nepal in September 2019 as planned. It involved three weeks of trekking between 4-8 hours per day carrying a 13kg backpack. I can say that it was fantastic trekking and a great experience. To realise dreams beyond the ordinary…that’s my #lifewithoutlimitations.”
Peter Dudderidge
My name is Peter Dudderidge, and I was referred to a Melbourne-based orthotics clinic for an Unloader One X knee brace to help manage symptoms related to knee osteoarthritis. From the initial consultation, where they took the time to understand my knee and leg issues, to recommending and fitting the brace, the experience has been excellent.
After a few months of using the Unloader One X knee brace, along with heel-raising plates in my shoes, I’ve noticed a real difference in how my knee feels while wearing it. Playing cricket and staying active now feels more manageable and comfortable.
I had previously thought that a knee replacement might be needed soon, but since using the brace, I feel better equipped to stay active.
I’d like to thank Össur and the team involved. I’ve really appreciated the support and would be happy to share my experience with others on a similar journey.
Peter - Veterans cricketer Australia over 60’s cricket captain 2023.
Myriam Steffen
In 2000, a gentleman from Myanmar experienced a life-altering event when he became a transfemoral amputee on the right side due to a landmine. Now 54 years old, his mobility was significantly limited not by his amputation, but by severe pain in his left knee. This discomfort was rated 8 or 9 out of 10, limiting him to about 400 metres before needing a 15-minute rest.
To help manage his symptoms and support his mobility, I fitted him with a medial Unloader One X knee brace. At the end of the appointment, he shared his initial impression, saying, “I like it already.”
His long-term physiotherapist followed up a few days later and reported: “He is loving the brace and reports with the assistance of his support worker that he is feeling much better than before. He feels 20% better with the brace on. He feels it is letting him walk further and not requiring as much rest.”
At a subsequent appointment focused on stairs and ramps, he reported further improvement in mobility and confidence during movement. Based on his feedback, the brace has contributed positively to how he feels about his daily function.
Trish Faulkner
"Using the Unloader One knee brace has helped me get back to activities like orienteering and hiking in rough terrain. While wearing the brace, I’ve felt more supported and experienced less discomfort during movement."
Tracey Provest
"Taking a holiday with my daughter two years clear of Triple Negative Breast Cancer, the Unloader helped me keep up. We trekked in Nepal, celebrated Mother’s Day sunrise at the Taj Mahal, and climbed Sigiriya Rock in Sri Lanka. While wearing the brace, I felt more confident and supported. It made exploring more enjoyable, and I doubt I would have reached the summit without it. Onwards and upwards!"
Thomas Strang
"I recently climbed Ayers Rock while wearing an Unloader One brace. I felt well-supported throughout the climb and experienced less discomfort than I normally would during and after similar activity. It was a memorable experience, and the brace helped me feel more confident in my movement."
Mark McLean
"With long wait times for knee replacement and worsening arthritis symptoms, I reached a point where I struggled to put weight on my leg. I was fitted with an Unloader knee brace and, while initially very sceptical, I was genuinely surprised by how much support it provided while wearing it"
David Gill
"Wearing my Unloader brace made a real difference during our two-week trip to Italy. Normally, walking long distances on cobblestone streets would have left me needing rest after just one day. Instead, I felt more supported and was able to keep up with my wife throughout the holiday."
Gary Snelson
"I’m 62 and have two knees affected by advanced osteoarthritis with no lateral cartilage. Since using Unloader braces, I’ve been able to keep enjoying my passion for skiing around the world -something I thought I might have to give up. They’ve been the most supportive braces I’ve used so far"
Paul Smith
"Wearing an Unloader brace helped me complete a trip of a lifetime climbing in the mountains of Nepal. Before using the brace, I didn’t think this kind of adventure would be possible for me. I felt more supported throughout the experience."
Kimya M.
"I spent months trying physiotherapy, massage, and exercise to manage some ongoing knee issues. An X-ray later revealed that my right knee was out of alignment. After consulting a physiotherapist, I was fitted with the Unloader One brace - and I noticed a real improvement.
While wearing the brace, my knee feels more supported, and I’m able to walk longer distances with fewer breaks. It’s had a positive impact on my daily comfort, and I’ve been really pleased with the difference it’s made for me."
Vicki N.
"After surgery to repair a torn meniscus, I was still experiencing ongoing issues with my knee. My doctor discussed options with me, including trying an Unloader One knee brace.
When I started using the brace, I felt more supported and stable while walking. Over time, I noticed a meaningful improvement in how my knee felt during daily activities. Eventually, I no longer needed to rely on the brace.
I’m grateful for how it supported me during recovery and would encourage others to speak with their healthcare provider about options that might work for them."
Tiffany M.
"Nearly two years after being recommended the Unloader One knee brace for my osteoarthritis, I’ve been able to return to running more regularly. I wear the brace while running and feel more confident knowing my knee is supported. It hasn’t noticeably affected my pace or gait, and it helps me feel steady with each step."
Maurice C.
"The Unloader One knee brace has supported me in continuing work on building new infrastructure and maintaining our large acreage. After more than three years, we’ve reached a point where we can enjoy what we’ve created.
I genuinely feel the brace has helped me stay active and mobile while wearing it, and I still use it daily when moving around the farm."