Comparison of the Effects of the Anderson Knee Stabler and McDavid Knee Guard on the Kinematics of the Lower Extremity during Gait*

Abstract

* This study was completed in partial fulfillment of Ms. Van Horn's master's degree, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The purpose of this study was to compare gait patterns among subjects wearing Anderson Knee Stabler braces, McDavid Knee Guards, and no braces. Fifteen male subjects were filmed while running on a treadmill at 4 mph and 8 mph without a brace, with an Anderson Knee Stabler, and with a McDavid Knee Guard. Fourteen gait variables were measured for each brace and speed condition. Analysis of the variables with multivariate ANOVA indicated that there was an increase in hip and knee flexion and knee angular velocity with and without braces at 8 mph as compared to 4 mph, a decrease in knee extension when either brace was worn, and minimal gait pattern differences with the Anderson Knee Stabler as compared with the McDavid Knee Guard (all results p < 0.05). The results of this study demonstrate that no clear superiority exists between the braces' effect on the gait characteristics measured. Therefore, other parameters should be considered when making brace selections.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1988;9(7):254-260.