Prototype Development of Offloading Knee Brace for Management of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Case Study

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a degenerative joint condition characterized by the gradual deterioration of the cartilage in the knee joint commonly affecting the medial compartment of knee joint due to the increased load bearing during various activities. As the cartilage diminishes, the bones in the medial compartment may start rubbing against each other, causing discomfort, pain, stiffness in the joints, reduced range of motion, quadriceps muscle weakness, joint instability which may cause a feeling of wobbliness or unsteadiness, making it more difficult for individuals to maintain balance and stability during movement and changes in proprioception. Different types of knee orthosis can be beneficial in the management of OA. The currently available knee orthoses are useful for offloading the medial compartment of the knee, but are highly expensive, unaffordable for most people in developing nations like India. Hence the study aims to develop an effective intervention that does not involve surgery or pharmaceuticals, providing alternatives for those who may prefer or cannot undergo more invasive treatments. A new offloading knee brace was developed at Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, which was designed appropriately providing potential to reduce symptoms, improve joint function, improve balance and enhance overall well-being. The developed new offloading knee brace is an economical solution for the patients as well as the findings of the study will help the orthotist to have an option for an appropriate knee brace for successful treatment of person with medial knee osteoarthritis. Objective: To develop a light weight and cost – effective offloading knee brace to assess the effects on balance and strength in patients suffering from medial osteoarthritis. Study design: Case report Significance: Unfortunately, the braces available are costly and unaffordable for Indian population, therefore the attempt was made to reduce the cost of the brace and the spiral design in new offloading brace resolve the balancing issues and improve the muscle strength of knee osteoarthritis. Method: A 45-year-old male with osteo knee arthritis of medial compartment of grade 2 (mild) was assessed and pre – test reading for balance and strength was done. The subject was then provided with new offloading knee brace for a period of 1 week, post – test for balance and strength was recorded. Result: The result shows a significant improvement in five – time sit to stand test, stair climb test, 6 - minute walk test, timed up and go test and lift and carry test thereby indicating improvement in balance and strength after the use of the brace. Conclusion: The offloading knee brace was effective in improving the balance and strength in person with medial knee osteoarthritis. Key words: Osteoarthritis, Balance, Strength, Knee orthosis, Offloading knee brace.