Developing Modular Powered Knee Braces to Improve Movement and Reduce Pain in People with Knee Osteoarthritis and Other Conditions

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are developing modular, powered lower-limb orthoses designed to help people with weakened joints move more easily and reduce musculoskeletal pain. This study focuses on new motorized knee braces that can provide partial assistance during daily activities to reduce knee pain and muscle effort in individuals with multi-compartment knee osteoarthritis. The aim is to create a neural network-based controller that works across different tasks without restricting natural motion. The study tests a high-torque, low-inertia motor system integrated into modified knee stabilizer and unloader braces. These devices use a novel energy shaping control method to provide biomimetic torque assistance that adapts to various activities. Participants will wear these modular powered orthoses during tasks to evaluate their effects on knee joint torque, muscle effort, and pain reduction. Participants will be assessed over about two months, during which muscle effort, joint moment load, and pain scores will be regularly measured. Additional evaluations include walking tests, joint range of motion, and user satisfaction questionnaires. The study aims to determine if this technology can feasibly reduce knee pain and muscle load while improving movement in people with knee osteoarthritis.

Enhancing Voluntary Motion in Broad Patient Populations With Modular Powered Orthoses Renewal