If the mechanical knee axis is located below the anatomical knee axis, what is the resultant pressure on the thigh band?

When the mechanical knee axis is positioned below the anatomical knee axis, the dynamics of the forces acting on the prosthesis and the residual limb become crucial. In this scenario, the thigh band experiences pressure that is directed anterior-distally.

This pressure distribution occurs because the alignment causes the prosthetic knee to effectively push the thigh band away from the thigh's anatomy, resulting in anterior and distal pressure. This alignment can also lead to increased anterior forces during weight-bearing activities, as the mechanical alignment is lower than the anatomical reference. Consequently, this mechanical setup tends to pull or press against the anterior aspect of the thigh band while pushing distally as the body weight shifts over the prosthetic limb when a person is standing or walking.

Understanding the implications of axis placement is fundamental in prosthetics to ensure comfort, stability, and function for the user. The anterior-distal pressure is significant in influencing the fit and performance of the prosthesis, playing a critical role in clinical assessments and the design of prosthetic devices.