College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Biomedical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Biomedical Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
Biomedical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Biomedical Engineering
College - Author 3
College of Engineering
Department - Author 3
Biomedical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 3
BS in Biomedical Engineering
Date
6-2020
Primary Advisor
Michael Whitt, College of Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
This project changed its scope throughout the two quarters. Originally, it was a student proposed project to create a low-cost brace to help patients after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery. The brace was to be worn during the day and help stretch the ACL to speed up the recovery time. After meeting with Dr. McSorley, a physical therapist local to San Luis Obispo, we decided to change the scope of the project. Dr. McSorley mentioned that the recovery process for ACL patients stops at night when they go to sleep. Creating a brace that could be worn at night would improve the recovery process. The brace had to be adjustable for different extends of stretching and comfortable to be worn overnight.
Most of the design was done before the project change was made. However, most of the elements could be kept as mainly the application was changed. The brace fits around the knee and attaches at the upper and lower leg. There is a gear mechanism on the side that allows the user to adjust the stretch of the knee. One important aspect that Dr. McSorley brought up was that the brace had to apply the correct forces on the leg to prevent reinjury of the ACL. The brace must apply a force on the top front of the knee and the bottom back of the leg.
The device functions by attaching around the knee. The user can adjust the brace, so it stretches the knee to a comfortable degree. Although most testing was not possible because of the COVID-19 situation, the brace should work as intended. The brace is made of aluminum and attaches to the leg with Velcro straps to provide support and durability. The padding provides comfort to the user.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/bmedsp/129