Where should the mechanical knee joint be positioned on a KAFO?

The mechanical knee joint on a Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (KAFO) should be positioned half the distance between the adductor tubercle and the medial tibial plateau because this location optimally aligns with the anatomical structures of the lower limb, providing a balance between stability and functional mobility. Positioning the knee joint in this manner facilitates proper moment arms for knee flexion and extension, which are crucial for gait mechanics and overall mobility when using the orthosis.

By placing the knee joint in this optimal location, the KAFO can better mimic natural biomechanics, allowing for efficient movement during activities such as walking. This alignment also helps distribute forces during weight-bearing, reducing the potential for joint discomfort or injury.

Other placements, such as at the midpoint of the thigh or at the level of the patella, may not take into account the unique anatomy of the individual user and could result in misalignment, decreased leverage, or compromised function. Placing the joint just above the lateral malleolus is closer to an ankle joint rather than a knee joint and would not provide the necessary leverage needed for effective knee joint function within the KAFO.