Knee extensor mechanism injuries are common injuries and are managed
with some degree of immobilisation and restricted weight bearing at some
stage to facilitate healing. The aim of this work was to determine the
type of immobilisation or splintage and weight bearing status that
results in minimal forces acting through the extensor mechanism during
stance. This work has important implications for the management of
patients with patella and extensor mechanism injuries. The work suggests
that lower extensor mechanism forces are seen with lower knee flexion
angles. The results also suggest that improvements in knee brace design
to allow 0 degrees of knee flexion, rather than the 9 or 10 degrees
commonly obtained, are likely to result in significantly reduced
extensor mechanism tensile forces. This book will be useful not only for
Orthopaedic Surgeons managing patients with knee extensor mechanism
injuries but also other disciplines involved in their care, as well as
engineers who are interested in knee braces and the biomechanics of the
knee joint.