The Effect of Using Knee Braces on Postural Control of the Older Adults in Both Medio-Lateral and Anterior-Posterior Directions during Walking

Lack of balance control and falling in the elderly is one of the most important causes of injury and in some cases even causes death. Finding better ways to control posture is scientifically important. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of using knee braces on postural control of the elderly in both medio -external and anterior-posterior directions during walking.

The present research was a quasi-experimental and laboratory study. The statistical sample of this study included 15 women (mean age 66 years, height 160 cm, weight 74 kg and BMI 28 kg / m2) and 15 men (mean age 69 years, height 175 cm, weight 81 Kg and BMI 27 kg / m2). The intervention used in this study was a type of brace by restricting the movements of Flexion (extension) and Extension (opening) or supporting the knee. The Bertec force plate (Bertec Corporation, Columbus, OH) was used to record the pressure center.

The effect of group factor on the amount of maximum displacement of the pressure center was significant (P <0.05). Also, the effect of brace factor on the amplitude of pressure center changes in the anterior-posterior direction was significant (p = 0.018). Moreover, the maximum amount of displacement of the center of pressure (COPMax) in the medio -external direction during walking with braces compared to walking without braces was 32.75%. 

In general, the values of center of pressure displacement are different in the two groups of men and women. However, braces have a similar effect on both men and women and increases the displacement of the pressure center.