Editorial Commentary : Expert Opinion on Unloader Brace Derived From a Modified Delphi Consensus Study: A Guide to Support Decision‐Making in the Practice

Abstract

A Delphi expert consensus process is a method to achieve a consolidated consensus derived from expert opinions regarding a conflicting issue without the accumulation of high‐quality evidence in the literature. Recent literature has employed this analytical methodology to attain expert‐derived recommendations regarding the role of unloader bracing in the management of knee osteoarthritis. There have been several biomechanical studies positively supporting the efficacy of this treatment modality; however, randomized controlled trials showing its clinical benefit are still limited. Although there are some inherent limitations included in this type of analysis, several statements and recommendations made about the use of unloader bracing across nonoperative and surgery‐related applications help physicians make clinical decisions in practice.