Three-dimensional electrogoniometric study of selected knee orthoses

In an attempt to provide quantitative data on the functional performance of six selected knee orthoses a 9-D electrogoniometric study was initiated. Using a TRIAX electrogoniometer the orthoses were compared in a group of ten subjects during normal level walking. The orthoses were Cinch, Fastwrap, Drop-lok, Lerman Multi-ligamentous, Donjoy 4pt, and Flex 10. It was found that the simple orthoses provided little support and may severely restrict knee flexion even without any hinges being locked. The more rigid orthoses were superior although providing surprisingly little control of knee adduction and internal rotation unless the joints were locked. The results suggest that further work in this area is required with more comprehensive measurements of knee motion (translational and rotational) during activities other than walking.