A Contemporary Review on Knee Injuries and Protective Pads

摘要

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a medical condition that affects the knee joint of humans primarily in the age group of 55-60 years. It specifically triggers cartilage breakdown due to aging. However, injury, obesity, inactivity, genetics, inflammation, diabetes, and other medical reasons may also lead to osteoarthritis in lesser age groups. Some of the symptoms used for detecting osteoarthritis are muscular pain, a decrease in range of motion at joint, difficulty in joint mobilization, and mild swelling around the joint. Orthopaedic practitioners analyze this condition using the Kellgren Lawrence grading system based on X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging. Diagnosis involves suggesting regular exercises for increasing muscle strength, losing weight, and putting less effort into the affected joint. Knee braces, knee caps, knee protective pads, and knee sleeves are recommended for use depending on the grade of cartilage wear. As a measure of precaution, many people in the aforementioned age group as well as sportspersons are moving towards using personal protective devices as prevention is better than treatment to the injury. Personal protective device is a patient-specific device used to decrease risk factors associated with the injury. One such device is a knee protective pad which safeguards the knee and provides comfort. This paper presents a critical review and detailed analysis of the latest trends in the development and use of conventional and unconventional knee protective pads.