Effect of Knee Brace on Patterns of Weight Distribution in Patients with Stroke: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background: Impaired postural control is a key characteristic of mobility issues in patients with stroke. It increases the risk of falls. Weight-bearing asymmetry (WBA) is found associated with balance, which is considered one of the determinants for the prediction of post-stroke functional outcomes. However, limited data are available regarding patterns of weight distribution in stroke patients and if the provision of orthosis changes this pattern. Aim: This study aimed to assess the effect of knee brace on patterns of weight distribution in stroke patients. Materials and Methods: It is a cross-sectional study, in which 46 patients with stroke having genu recurvatum were included. BOBO PRO, a balance platform was used to assess patterns of weight distribution. Patients were asked to stand on a balance platform, and readings were recorded during double- and single-leg stances, without and with a knee brace. Results: During the double-leg stance, without a knee brace, more weight was on the unaffected side (75%–80%), of which 55%–60 % was on the hindfoot and 20%–25% on the forefoot. On the affected side, weight-bearing was reduced, (20%–25%); of which maximum weight was on the hindfoot (17%–18 %) and minimal weight was on the forefoot (2%–3 %). With a Knee brace weight distribution on the affected side was improved to 35 % (24%–25 % on the hindfoot and 10%–11 % on the forefoot). During single-leg stance without a knee brace, 84%–90 % of the weight was on the hindfoot, which changed to 70%–75 % with the application of a brace. Conclusion: The knee brace affects patterns of weight distribution in stroke patients. This indicates that the provision of a knee brace in the rehabilitation of post-stroke patients may lead to better rehabilitation outcomes.