• The Research Journal of the Costume Culture
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• v.31 no.5
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• pp.692-704
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• 2023

This study analyzed 214 sports knee braces found on Chinese websites between October 2022 and November 2022 to assess product type (impact protection material, fastening method, and protection method), material composition, size, weight, and main characteristics. The product type was further categorized according to (1) use of hard guard and soft guard protection method; (2) cover type, strap type, and slip-on type fastening method; and (3) pressure type and support type protection method. It also noted the physical shock protection materials used, including foam (EVA or polyurethane) attached to joints as a buffer material and plastic (TPU or PP) that protects the user's knee from external impacts. The study found that the materials that primarily comprise sports knee braces are a combination of nylon, polyester, and neoprene. Additionally, it found that most sports knee braces available on the market are available in three sizes based on knee circumference: M (35-38cm), L (38-41cm), and XL (41-44cm), while some products are available in one size only. Furthermore, the majority of the 214 products studied weighed 200g, followed by 1,000g. Finally, in terms of product characteristics, many sports knee braces utilize ring-shaped silicone pads to distribute the load pressure on the knees or incorporate sturdy adhesive velcro to improve knee stability.

• Journal of the Korean Society of Clothing and Textiles
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• v.45 no.2
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• pp.253-270
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• 2021

This survey provides research into developing knee braces to protect the knee against damage, reduce knee pain, and strengthen the knee. A total of 235 surveys were conducted from December 2019 to January 2020. The subjects were adults in their 20s and over who lived in the Seoul metropolitan area and had experience of using knee braces. In terms of age differences, subjects over 60 years of age purchased knee braces mostly to secure a reduction of pain (ROP), whereas subjects in their 20s and 30s purchased knee braces for physical shock protection (PSP). Subjects in their 40s and 50s purchased knee braces for improvement of muscle movement (IMM). There was no significant difference in shape, material, and locking method based on the reason for wearing the knee brace. These results show that it is conceivable and maybe preferable to produce different knee braces-with a variety of shapes, materials, and locking materials-according to the reason behind wearing a knee brace. Knee braces are worn currently without any differentiation despite the findings of this study. In particular, we argue the need for functional and differentiated development of knee braces specifically for PSP, ROP, and IMM.

• Journal of Fashion Business
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• v.27 no.5
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• pp.93-107
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• 2023

This study aimed to design a knee brace with dry electrode EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) for elite badminton players suffering from knee pain and assess its effectiveness in relieving pain and improving mobility. The assessment measured knee joint range of motion (ROM), Sargent jump height, and pain perception using a visual analog scale (VAS). Four experimental groups were established: stability, pain induction after 100 squats, muscle soreness induction with a regular knee brace, and muscle soreness induction with the EMS knee brace. The most suitable knee brace was selected from four samples to design the EMS knee brace. The conductive fabric was integrated into the inner surface of the knee brace to enhance EMS conductivity for the quadriceps muscles. Tensile strength tests showed that the dry electrode did not significantly affect the physical functionality of the knee brace.Regarding knee joint ROM and Sargent jump height, the EMS knee brace outperformed muscle soreness induction with a regular knee brace and wearing a standard knee brace. VAS measurements demonstrated that the EMS braces effectively alleviated pain perception in most cases. The results indicate the potential for developing EMS braces to alleviate pain and prevent injuries for athletes across various sports.