The SofTec Genu special brace promotes a more physiological gait

In addition to hard-frame braces, soft braces are also available for the non-surgical treatment following ruptures of the anterior cruciate ligament. A randomized, controlled comparative study conducted by the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) examined both brace types for their stabilizing effect and impact on gait. As a soft brace, the unique SofTec Genu was chosen, which features a compression knit with tension stability in transverse direction as well as splints and straps that create a frictional connection around knee. The result: both types tested provide reliable stabilization. During certain movements, however, the SofTec Genu promotes the physiological gait more effectively. A previous study conducted by Strutzenberger et al. already showed that the flexible brace significantly increases neuromuscular stability in test subjects with injured knees when simple movements are performed. Complex movements, such as running along with a floor panel suddenly tilting or running with quick 180-degree turns, were examined in the follow-up study. The findings have now been published by Focke et al. in the open access journal Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology and can be accessed online: https://doi.org/10.3389/fbioe.2020.00964

Image: Bauerfeind