| 1. Citation: |
Moyer, R. F., Birmingham, T. B., Bryant, D. M., Giffin, J. R., Marriott, K. A., & Leitch, K. M. (2015). Biomechanical effects of valgus knee bracing: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage / OARS, Osteoarthritis Research Society, 23 (2), 178-188. doi: 10.1016/j.joca.2014.11.018 |
| Abstract: |
Reviews 30 studies with 478 subjects that investigated the effect of valgus braces with (mostly) biomechanical methods. Finds that they can decrease, with moderate to high effect sizes, various biomechanical outcomes: medial knee compressive force, mediolateral distribution of load across the knee, quadriceps/ hamstring and quadriceps/ gastrocnemius co-contraction ratios, and can increase medial joint space during gait. Longer durations of brace use are associated with smaller treatment effects. Various minor complications of valgus brace use are noted. |
