Forceful
contractions of the quadriceps can be sufficient
to cause permanent stretching of an ACL graft,
introducing knee instability that could lead
to degenerative changes within the joint.
Studies show quadriceps intensive activities
should be avoided at joint angles less than
60 degrees, particularly the last 30 degrees
of extension when strains are at a maximum.
Keeping
patients out of these "at risk" positions
is difficult, particularly when returning
to sports specific activities. DJ Orthopedics
has developed a new tool to assist in returning
patients to full function while maximizing
graft protection. FourcePoint Technology
enhances the DonJoy Four Points of Leverage
design by damping knee joint extension, which
improves the mechanical performance of the
brace and reduces shear forces at the knee.
The
DonJoy Armor/FourcePoint utilizes a spring mechanism
in the hinge to apply gradually increasing
resistance during knee extension. The
resistance engages in the last 25 degrees
of extension.
The
resistance serves three critical roles.
•
First,
it reduces the time spent near
full extension or in the "at risk"
position.
•
Second,
it increases the posterior load
applied by the brace on the tibia
to prevent anterior tibial translation.
•
Third,
it eliminates the extension shock
felt when a patient extends into
a ten degree standard rigid stop.
The
Armor/FourcePoint
is ideal for the patient returning
to sports specific activity after
ACL reconstruction, an ACL deficient
knee, or for prophylaxis.
The
Anti-migration supra condyle pad
anchors on the medial femoral
condylar for zero migration.
The
hinge resistance has three settings
to meet the specification of the
rehab protocol and the patient's
comfort.
The
DonJoy Armor with FourcePoint
is available in standard
and short lengths.
Standard length for patients
with a 26.5" inseam or greater.
Short length for patients
with a 26" inseam or less.
The
Off-the-shelf Armor with
FourcePoint comes in 7
different sizes and two
lengths. The brace
offers moldable aluminum
cuffs for a custom fit.
There is a one-year limited
warranty on the frame
and hinge.
All accessories
(parts) for this brace
are available at DonJoybraces.com.