Abstract
This study aims to investigate how different hinge mechanisms and strap tensions of knee braces affect brace migration and the brace abduction moment (BAM). Thirteen healthy participants underwent walking tests with various hinge mechanisms and strap tensions. Brace migration was measured using 3D motion capture system, and BAM was collected using moment measurement system. The results showed that hinge mechanism significantly affected brace migration, while strap tension significantly affected BAM (P < 0.05). The peak brace migration ranged from 1.9±0.3 mm to 3.1±0.5 mm, and peak BAM increased from 4.7±0.3 Nm to 9.4±0.4 Nm as strap tension increased. Neither factor significantly affected knee range of motion (P > 0.05). In conclusion, hinge mechanism affects migration in the sagittal plane, while strap tension affects BAM. These findings provide essential insights for optimizing knee brace design and highlight the importance of personalized brace adjustments.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 4845-4852 |
| Number of pages | 8 |
| Journal | Journal of Mechanical Science and Technology |
| Volume | 39 |
| Issue number | 8 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Aug 2025 |
Keywords
- Brace abduction moment
- Brace migration
- Hinge mechanism
- Knee brace
- Strap tension