The Future of Knee Bracing
There are four key problems with current knee braces: fit, discomfort, slippage/ migration down the leg, and inhibition of movement.
To address these pain-points of currently available knee braces, and to improve the wear experience, we created the BRACEUNDER interface method. Benefits include: improved fit, increased comfort, brace fixation/ reduced movement, space for natural movement and muscle/ nerve regeneration.
"It makes the experience of wearing a knee brace better."
In addition to addressing these four issues, the next push in the status quo of joint bracing starts with a system that offers true elements of customization, addresses more parts of the kinetic chain (more than just one, isolated joint), layered designed combining many applications of support, multiple dynamic uses in one brace for rehab and return to activity (i.e. a rehabilitative application appropriately stressing the joint for strengthening/ normalizing, or a prophylactic/ protective element once we return to activity), and data creation for further biomechanical research / repeatable use.
The next wave of musculoskeletal supports will be a hybrid design that address more parts of the body while providing dynamic and customizable elements. In addition, joint bracing needs a sequenced methodology so that it aids in return to a more normal state instead of the creation of dependency. An individual would wear a knee support system that has a level of support (degree of protection) adjusted for each phase of the recovery process. For example, an individual six weeks post-op (after) ACL reconstructive surgery would wear the highest degree of protection and sequentially decrease the level of support as they progress through rehab and recover normal movement patterns.
"One pair of tights- infinite applications"
"It's about your body, and your injury... Not the size on the shelf."
A joint support system and methodology needs to be dynamic in that it not only protects (prophylactic), but it also can provide a training mechanism for biomechanical/ tissue renormalization.
It is important to stress our bodies in healthy ways to maintain resilience, especially in times of recovery and rehabilitation. BRACEUNDER provides a new methodology for ACL tear prevention/ recovery training.