Godwin K Dzidotor, Jeffrey B Moorhead, Chinedu C Ude, Kenneth S Ogueri, Debolina Ghosh, Cato T Laurencin
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: Knee orthoses have been extensively used as a nonsurgical approach to improving knee deficiencies. Currently, arthritic knee conditions remain the leading cause of disability, and this number is expected to increase. As the use of knee orthoses varies widely, so has their effectiveness which is still largely debatable. Here, we present the functions and effectiveness of the three most prominent knee orthotic models dedicated to supporting knee osteoarthritis-unloader, patellofemoral, and knee sleeves.
Purpose/research question: Considering the depth and diversity of the many clinical studies and documented laboratory reports published to date, this literature review was created to educate the clinician, patient, and researcher on common knee orthoses used for the management of arthritic knee conditions. In doing so, we discuss their design, biomechanical effects, and clinical efficacy, as well as broader outcomes, limitations, and recommendations for use.
Results/synthesis: The knee orthoses discussed within the scope of this paper are dedicated to protecting the knee against strenuous compressive loads that may affect the patellofemoral and tibiofemoral joints of the knee. Since the knee has multiple axes of motion and articulating surfaces that experience different loads during functional activities, it can be implied that, to a large extent, knee brace designs can differ drastically. Unloader knee orthoses are designed to decrease tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joint pressures. Patellofemoral knee orthoses are designed to decrease strain on the patellofemoral and quadriceps tendons while stabilizing the patella. Knee sleeves are designed to stabilize movements, reduce pain in joints, and improve proprioception across the knee joint.
Conclusion: Although patients often report benefits from wearing braces, these benefits have not been confirmed by clinicians and scientific investigators. Results from these three orthosis types show that clinical efficacy is still elusive due to the different methodologies used by researchers.
Layman summary: Knee orthoses also referred to as knee brace are commonly used for support and stability of the knee. Unloader knee braces are designed to relieve and support those suffering from knee osteoarthritis by improving physical impairment and reducing pain. Patellofemoral knee braces aim to help patients manage patellofemoral pain syndrome. Rehabilitative compression sleeves, also known as knee sleeves, are often used to assist patients suffering from knee pain and laxity. Important findings on the three knee braces discussed show discrepancies in results. Their effectiveness and validity are yet to be understood.
期刊介绍:
Regenerative Engineering is an international journal covering convergence of the disciplines of tissue engineering, advanced materials science, stem cell research, the physical sciences, and areas of developmental biology. This convergence brings exciting opportunities to translate bench-top research into bedside methods, allowing the possibility of moving beyond maintaining or repairing tissues to regenerating them. The journal encourages both top-down engineering approaches and bottom-up strategies integrating materials science with stem cell research and developmental biology. Convergence papers on instructive biomaterials, stimuli-responsive biomaterials, micro- and nano-patterning for regenerative engineering, elastomeric biomaterials, hydrogels for tissue engineering, and rapid prototyping and bioprinting approaches are particularly welcome.
The journal provides a premier, single-blind peer-reviewed forum for the publication of original papers, authoritative reviews, rapid communications, news and views, and opinion papers addressing the most important issues and efforts toward successfully regenerating complex human tissues and organs. All research articles feature a lay abstract highlighting the relevance and future impact for patients, government and other health officials, and members of the general public. Bridging the gap between the lab and the clinic, the journal also serves as a dedicated platform for showcasing translational research that brings basic scientific research and discoveries into clinical methods and therapies, contributing to the improvement of human health care.
Topics covered in Regenerative Engineering and Translational Medicine include:
Advanced materials science for regenerative and biomedical applicationsStem cells for tissue regenerationDrug delivery for tissue regenerationNanomaterials and nanobiotechnology for tissue regenerationStudies combining tissue engineering/regeneration with developmental biologyConvergence research in pre-clinical and clinical phases