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Updated: Jul 12, 2026
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Lower Limb Biomechanical Analysis of Healthy Participants
Published on: April 15, 2020
How accurate are lockable orthotic knee braces? An objective gait analysis study
1Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, Stepping Hill Hospital, Stockport, UK. wasimkhan@doctors.org.uk
The Knee
|September 4, 2007
Summary
This study found that lockable knee braces are inaccurate at low flexion angles, with actual knee movement exceeding the set limits. These inaccuracies can alter knee biomechanics and increase joint forces, impacting patient recovery.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Orthopaedics
- Gait Analysis
Background:
- Orthotic knee braces are increasingly used for knee injury management.
- Previous research lacks gait analysis to validate the accuracy of these braces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the accuracy of immobilization provided by a lockable orthotic knee brace using gait analysis.
- To determine if set knee flexion angles in braces match actual measured angles.
Main Methods:
- Eight healthy male subjects participated in the study.
- Gait analysis was used to measure knee flexion angles under six conditions: brace locked at 0, 10, 20, 30 degrees, unlocked brace, and no brace.
- Kinematic instruments were used for precise angle measurement.
Main Results:
- Measured knee flexion angles at 0 and 10 degrees were significantly higher than the set brace angles.
- The unlocked knee brace condition showed significantly greater knee flexion than without a brace.
- Inaccuracies were most pronounced at lower knee flexion angles.
Conclusions:
- Lockable orthotic knee braces demonstrate inaccuracies, particularly at low flexion angles.
- These discrepancies can lead to altered knee joint biomechanics and increased forces, especially on the extensor mechanism.
- Clinical implications include potential negative impacts on rehabilitation and joint health.
