Comparison of functional knee braces for control of anterior tibial displacement.

Abstract

Using a surrogate knee model, the ten custom functional knee braces that previous studies had shown to be most effective were tested for restraint to anterior tibial displacement. Testing was performed at 20 degrees knee flexion with applied forces ranging from 50 to 400 N. All braces reduced anterior tibial displacement. Resistance to anterior tibial displacement depends directly on the brace design and is inversely related to the applied force. Post-bilateral hinge shell braces exhibited the most resistance to anterior tibial displacement. Few braces were effective in controlling anterior tibial displacement comparable with a normal knee at low forces. Most of the braces were less effective at controlling anterior tibial displacement at high forces.