Gait and neuromuscular adaptations after using a feedback-based gait monitoring knee brace.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the gait and neuromuscular effects of a feedback-based gait monitoring knee brace. The aim of this paper was to explore how training with this knee brace affected the gait pattern utilized, rate of loading (ROL), and proprioceptive acuity. METHODS: Fifteen healthy women wore this knee brace that provided audible feedback on gait kinematics for a 30-min training period. We performed pre- and post-gait analyses and proprioceptive acuity assessments to determine gait learning and adaptation with this training. RESULTS: Post-training significant changes were seen in the knee angle prior to and at initial contact and peak knee extensor, flexor, and adductor moments, which ultimately led to a reduced ROL experienced. Subjects also had improved proprioceptive acuity post-training. INTERPRETATIONS Our results indicate that using a feedback-based gait monitoring knee brace can change the gait pattern by increasing the knee flexion angle during the swing to stance transition. Though there was an approximate 25% decrease in the ROL experienced, there was also an increase in the knee adductor moment. Future long-term studies are needed to further explore the positive and negative effects of feedback-based gait monitoring knee brace on individuals with a compromised knee joint, such as those post-anterior cruciate ligament injury.