Differences in proprioception, muscle force control and comfort between conventional and new-generation knee and ankle orthoses

The aim of this study was to compare muscle force control and proprioception between conventional and new-generation experimental orthoses. Sixteen healthy subjects participated in a single-blind controlled trial in which two different types of orthosis were applied to the dominant knee or ankle, while the following variables were evaluated: muscle force control (accuracy), joint position sense, kinesthesia, static balance as well as subjective outcomes. The use of experimental orthoses resulted in better force accuracy during isometric knee extensions compared to conventional orthoses (P = 0.005). Moreover, the use of experimental orthoses resulted in better force accuracy during concentric (P = 0.010) and eccentric (P = 0.014) ankle plantar flexions and better knee joint kinesthesia in the flexed position (P = 0.004) compared to conventional orthoses. Subjective comfort (P < 0.001) and preference scores were higher with experimental orthoses compared to conventional ones. In conclusion, orthosis type affected static and dynamic muscle force control, kinesthesia, and perceived comfort in healthy subjects. New-generation experimental knee and ankle orthoses may thus be recommended for prophylactic joint bracing during physical activity and to improve the compliance for orthosis use, particularly in patients who require long-term bracing.