Effects of prophylactic knee bracing on lower extremity joint position and muscle activation during running

The primary purpose of a prophylactic knee brace is to decrease injury potential without compromising joint function; however, the extent that these devices can alter knee muscle function is not clear. This study investigated effects of nonprescription prophylactic knee bracing on lower extremity joint position and muscle activation during running. Six healthy male college-aged recreational runners used a motor-driven treadmill under 6 conditions: fast or slow speeds, with and without wearing a prophylactic knee brace, and with and without wearing a weighted vest. Changes in hip, knee, and ankle joint position and electromyographic activity from 9 lower extremity muscles were monitored during the running cycle weightbearing phase. Results revealed significant changes (P < 0.05) in joint position and electromyographic activity for comparisons of slow versus fast, braced versus nonbraced, and weighted versus nonweighted conditions. From 83% to 89% of the braced and nonbraced comparisons generated significant differences in knee joint position while significant hip and ankle joint position changes occurred in 50% to 58% of comparisons. From 67% to 83% of braced and nonbraced comparisons for the 9 muscles produced significant differences in electromyographic activity. Findings suggest that neuromuscular control is altered when external prophylactic devices are applied.