Auxiliary device for preventing and treating flexion contracture of knee joint

By designing a knee flexion contracture assistive device that includes a fixing module, a training module, and a display control module, effective prevention and personalized training for knee flexion contracture have been achieved. This solves the problems of poor training effect and safety hazards in existing technologies, and improves the scientific nature and safety of training.

CN121534370APending Publication Date: 2026-02-17SHUGUANG HOSPITAL AFFILIATED WITH SHANGHAI UNIV OF T C M
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202511894442.X
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-12-16
Publication Date
2026-02-17

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing knee flexion contracture assistive devices cannot scientifically and effectively prevent knee flexion contracture, and cannot autonomously control and adjust knee joint pressure, resulting in poor training effects or potential safety hazards.

Method used

An auxiliary device comprising a fixing module, a training module, and a display and control module was designed. Through an adjustable backrest, a pressure device, a pressure sensor, and an intelligent display and control module, it enables precise control of the knee joint and personalized training. Combined with electrode pads for neuromuscular electrical stimulation, it improves training effectiveness and safety.

Benefits of technology

It effectively prevents and treats knee flexion contracture, ensures training intensity and safety, provides personalized pressure adjustment and real-time feedback, improves the scientific nature and convenience of training, reduces patient discomfort, and enhances quadriceps strength.

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Abstract

The invention relates to an auxiliary device for preventing and treating flexion contracture of knee joints. The auxiliary device comprises a fixing module, a training module and a display control module, the fixing module comprises a bottom plate; the training module comprises supporting plates arranged on the two sides of the middle of the bottom plate. The upper portion of the supporting plate is fixed through a connecting plate. A pressurizing device is arranged on the surface of the connecting plate; the top of the pressurizing device penetrates through the supporting plate and is connected with a telescopic rod. The tail end of the telescopic rod is fixedly connected with a movable plate; the display control module is an integrated multifunctional display screen, and the display control module is connected with the connecting plate. The auxiliary device has the advantages that the auxiliary device is scientific and reasonable in structural design, all parts cooperate, and knee joint flexion contracture can be effectively prevented and treated; fixing, exercising and display control functions are integrated, an efficient, convenient and intelligent solution is provided for rehabilitation treatment of knee joint flexion contracture patients, and the knee joint flexion contracture rehabilitation device has wide clinical application prospects.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to an auxiliary device for preventing and treating knee flexion contracture. Background Technology

[0002] Normally, the knee joint is in a functional neutral position when extended to 0°, and hyperextension can reach 5° (i.e., -5°). In patients with knee flexion contractures, passive extension is limited, and the knee joint cannot be fully extended to the neutral position (0°) through passive movement. Knee stiffness and contractures are common knee joint dysfunctions and postoperative complications in sports medicine, orthopedics, and rehabilitation departments. They are frequently encountered after knee osteoarthritis, prolonged bed rest or joint immobilization, lower limb fractures, ligament injuries, etc., and are also common and relatively difficult problems to treat in these departments. The inability to restore joint function after various knee joint diseases and knee surgeries often leads to varying degrees of limited joint movement, significantly impacting daily activities and work, and also having adverse effects on the contralateral knee joint, and is an important factor promoting knee cartilage degeneration. Knee flexion contractures cause abnormal pressure distribution on the knee joint surface, increasing the load on the posterior cartilage, which can cause persistent pain; patients with knee osteoarthritis accompanied by flexion contractures have a 37% increased risk of requiring total knee replacement surgery. Restoring knee joint mobility is a treatment challenge for both patients and doctors.

[0003] Patients with knee flexion contractures typically require passive stretching and active training to treat and improve knee stiffness and contractures. Post-operative knee surgery also necessitates corresponding training to prevent knee stiffness and flexion contractures. Passive training requires professionally trained medical personnel, while the quality of active training—including intensity and range of motion—is difficult to guarantee based solely on the patient's subjective awareness. This is especially true for patients with knee disease or post-operative conditions, whose quadriceps strength is often reduced, leading to decreased knee extension power and insufficient extension force. Inappropriate training may be ineffective or even cause joint damage.

[0004] Chinese patent document: CN202221887887.7, application date 2022.07.21, patent title: A knee joint flexion contracture correction brace. It includes a support and fixation mechanism and a pressing mechanism sleeved above the support and fixation mechanism; it solves the problem in existing technologies where rehabilitation treatment requires nurses and family members to press on the patient's knee joint for extended periods, leading to prolonged treatment time and often resulting in hand soreness for nurses and family members. However, the functional training is singular, only providing a simple pressing and fixation effect on the knee joint, and cannot scientifically and systematically prevent and treat knee joint flexion contracture.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for an assistive device to prevent knee flexion contracture, which can improve range of motion and enhance knee extensor muscle strength, so as to ensure that patients can carry out scientific preventive or therapeutic self-training within a reasonable range under the guidance of doctors. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to propose an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture, in order to solve the problem that existing knee flexion contracture auxiliary devices cannot scientifically and effectively prevent knee flexion contracture, and at the same time solve the problem of the inability to autonomously control and adjust the pressure on the knee joint.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0008] An auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture includes a fixation module, a training module, and a display control module. The fixation module includes a base plate. The training module includes support plates located on both sides of the center of the base plate. The support plates are fixed above each other by a connecting plate. A pressure device is provided on the surface of the connecting plate. A telescopic rod is connected to the top of the pressure device through the support plate. A movable plate is fixedly connected to the end of the telescopic rod. The display control module is an integrated multi-functional display screen, and the display control module is connected to the connecting plate.

[0009] Preferably, the base plate has an adjustable backrest at the front end and a sliding component at the rear end.

[0010] Preferably, the sliding component includes a first groove provided on the surface of the base plate and a support platform that slides in conjunction with the first groove.

[0011] Preferably, the support platform body is made of a rigid elastic material, with an open top and a fixing groove connected to the bottom.

[0012] Preferably, the inner surfaces of the support plates on both sides are provided with second sliding grooves; both ends of the movable plate are respectively located in the second sliding grooves on both sides.

[0013] Preferably, the bottom surface of the movable plate is provided with a third sliding groove, and a pressure ring is slidably connected on the third sliding groove; a silicone pad is provided on the inner surface of the pressure ring, and a pressure sensor is provided on the silicone pad.

[0014] Preferably, the display control module has a signal receiving / transmission unit, a processing unit, a control unit and a power supply unit inside, and the modules are interconnected; the outer surface of the display control module has a display screen, function keys and a power switch.

[0015] Preferably, the display control module also includes a Bluetooth unit.

[0016] Preferably, an angle sensor is also provided at the connection between the telescopic rod and the movable plate, and the angle sensor is interconnected with each module inside the display control module.

[0017] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows:

[0018] 1. The fixed module provides patients with a stable and reliable training foundation, and also fully considers comfort to ensure that patients will not experience discomfort during training; the adjustable backrest can flexibly adapt to the body posture and body shape characteristics of different patients, further optimizing the training experience.

[0019] 2. The support platform facilitates the reciprocating movement of the leg during knee extension exercises through the first sliding groove. On the other hand, it keeps the leg relatively elevated and in a neutral position during the exercise process, preventing internal or external rotation of the leg, thereby ensuring the effectiveness of the exercise and rehabilitation.

[0020] 3. The coordinated operation of the pressure device and the telescopic rod can precisely control the pressure applied to the knee joint by the pressure ring, ensuring the scientific nature and effectiveness of the training intensity.

[0021] 4. The pressure ring itself adopts a sliding design, which can flexibly adapt to the knee joint anatomical position of different patients, improving the accuracy of personalized training. At the same time, the integrated high-precision pressure sensor can monitor and provide feedback on pressure data in real time, providing a reliable basis for adjusting training parameters.

[0022] 5. The display and control module enables intelligent management of the entire training process. Through efficient data processing and inter-module collaboration, the system can automatically adjust the pressure level according to the patient's real-time performance, while clearly displaying various information such as training time, pressure value, and number of exercises, which greatly facilitates patients and doctors to keep track of training progress in real time.

[0023] 6. The Bluetooth unit and angle sensor enable seamless connection with smart terminal devices. Patients and doctors can easily obtain training data and set personalized parameters through mobile phones or tablets. Doctors can also remotely monitor the patient's training status and provide timely professional advice, which greatly improves the convenience and scientific nature of rehabilitation management.

[0024] 7. When using the electrode pads, they are attached around the patient's knee joint and electrically connected to the display control module. During assisted training, the electrode pads provide functional electrical stimulation to the neuromuscular system, which can stimulate the quadriceps femoris muscle, strengthen the quadriceps femoris muscle, prevent knee joint muscle atrophy, and improve knee extension function. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the right front of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the right rear of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to the present invention.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a front view of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to the present invention.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the bottom structure of the movable plate of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to the present invention.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the bottom of the pressure ring of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the movable plate surface of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the connections between the modules of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0032] In the diagram: 1. Fixed module; 11. Base plate; 12. Backrest; 13. Sliding component; 131. First slide rail; 132. Support platform; 133. Fixed groove; 2. Training module; 21. Support plate; 211. Second slide rail; 22. Connecting plate; 23. Pressurizing device; 231. Telescopic rod; 24. Movable plate; 241. Third slide rail; 242. Angle sensor; 25. Pressure ring; 251. Pressure sensor; 252. Silicone pad; 3. Display control module; 31. Signal receiving / transmission unit; 32. Processing unit; 33. Control unit; 34. Power supply unit; 35. Display screen; 36. Function key; 37. Power switch; 38. Bluetooth unit. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments.

[0034] Example 1

[0035] Refer to the instruction manual appendix Figure 1-4 , Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to the present invention. Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the right rear of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to the present invention. Figure 3 This is a front view of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to the present invention. Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of the bottom structure of the movable plate of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to the present invention.

[0036] An assistive device for preventing knee flexion contracture includes a fixation module 1, a training module 2, and a display and control module 3;

[0037] The fixing module 1 includes a base plate 11, an adjustable backrest 12 at the head end of the base plate 11, and a sliding component 13 at the end end; the sliding component 13 includes a first groove 131 on the surface of the base plate 11, and a support platform 132 that slides with the first groove 131; the support platform 132 is made of a rigid elastic material, with an open top and a fixing groove 133 connected to the bottom.

[0038] The training module 2 includes support plates 21 located on both sides of the middle of the base plate 11; the support plates 21 are connected and fixed above each other by connecting plates 22; a pressure device 23 is provided on the surface of the support plate 22; a telescopic rod 231 is connected to the top of the pressure device 23 through the support plate 22; a movable plate 24 is fixedly connected to the end of the telescopic rod 231; a second sliding groove 211 is provided on the inner surface of the support plates 21 on both sides; both ends of the movable plate 24 are respectively located in the second sliding groove 211 on both sides; a third sliding groove 241 is provided on the bottom surface of the movable plate 24, and a pressure ring 25 is slidably connected on the third sliding groove 241; a pressure sensor 251 is provided on the inner surface of the pressure ring 25.

[0039] The display control module 3 is an integrated multi-functional display screen, which internally includes a signal receiving / transmission unit 31, a processing unit 32, a control unit 33, and a power supply unit 34, and the modules are interconnected. The outer surface of the display control module 3 is provided with a display screen 35, function keys 36, and a power switch 37. The display control module 3 is connected to the connecting plate 22 by a movable arm 221.

[0040] It should be noted that the adjustable backrest 12 of the fixed module 1 can be adjusted in angle according to the patient's needs and comfort, making it convenient for the patient to train in a suitable posture. When the patient sits on the base plate 11 with their back against the adjustable backrest, they can place their ankle into the fixing groove 133 by opening the top opening of the support platform 132. The elastic and rigid material design allows the fixing groove 133 to effectively wrap and fix the ankle. On the one hand, the first sliding groove 131 facilitates the reciprocating movement of the leg when the patient straightens their knee. On the other hand, it keeps the leg relatively raised and in a neutral position during the exercise, preventing the leg from internally or externally rotating, thereby ensuring the rehabilitation effect of the exercise. A layer of silicone can also be applied to the inner periphery of the fixing groove 133 to improve the comfort of the ankle wrapping and fixing.

[0041] The pressure device 23 in training module 2 can adjust the pressure according to the patient's actual situation; the telescopic rod 231 can move up and down under the action of the pressure device 23, driving the movable plate 24 to slide in the second slide groove 211, thereby changing the height of the pressure ring 25; the pressure ring 25 can slide left and right on the third slide groove 241 to adapt to the position of different patients' knee joints; the pressure sensor 251 can monitor the pressure applied to the knee joint by the pressure ring 25 in real time and transmit the pressure signal to the display control module 3;

[0042] The signal receiving / transmission unit 31 of the display control module 3 receives signals from the pressure sensor 251 and transmits them to the processing unit 32. The processing unit 32 processes and analyzes the signals and then transmits the processing results to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 can control the pressurizing device 23 according to the processing results, adjust the pressure applied to the knee joint by the pressure ring 25, and realize autonomous control and adjustment of the pressure. The power supply unit 34 provides power support for each module of the display control module 3. The display screen 31 can display information such as pressure value, training time, and training intensity, so that patients and doctors can understand the training situation. The function key 32 can be used to set training parameters, such as pressure level and training time. The on / off switch 33 is used to turn the display control module 3 on or off.

[0043] In the use of the assistive device for preventing knee flexion contracture of the present invention, the patient first sits on the base plate 1, leans against the adjustable backrest 12, and places the ankle in the fixing groove 133. According to the patient's physical condition and the doctor's advice, the appropriate pressure and training parameters are set through the display control module 3. After the device is started, the pressurizing device 23 starts to work, the telescopic rod 211 drives the movable plate 24 to descend, and the pressure ring 25 applies pressure to the knee joint, simulating the pressing action of a professional. Under the action of pressure, the patient performs knee extension and knee flexion training movements. During the training process, the pressure sensor 251 feeds back the pressure data to the display control module 3 in real time. If the pressure exceeds or falls below the set range, the control unit 33 will automatically adjust the working state of the pressurizing device to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the training.

[0044] Example 2

[0045] Please refer to the instruction manual appendix. Figure 5 , Figure 5This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the bottom of the pressure ring of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture in this embodiment. This embodiment is basically the same as Embodiment 1, except that the inner surface of the pressure ring 25 in this embodiment is provided with a silicone pad 252. The silicone pad 252 is soft and can effectively buffer the pressure of the pressure ring 25 on the knee joint, avoiding discomfort and damage caused by direct contact between the pressure ring and the knee joint, thus improving the patient's comfort during training. Furthermore, the silicone pad 252 has good elasticity and conformability, which can better wrap the knee joint, making the pressure more evenly distributed on the surface of the knee joint, enhancing the training effect.

[0046] Example 3

[0047] Please refer to the appendix. Figure 6-7 , Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the movable plate surface of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture in this embodiment. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the connections between the modules of an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture in this embodiment. This embodiment is basically the same as Embodiment 1, except that the display control module 3 in this embodiment also includes a Bluetooth unit 38; the auxiliary device also includes an angle sensor 242; through the Bluetooth unit 38, the display control module 3 can connect to the patient's mobile phone or other smart terminal devices, allowing real-time viewing of training data and setting of training parameters on the phone, and can also upload training data to the cloud for doctors to remotely monitor the patient's training and provide more scientific and reasonable training suggestions; the angle sensor 242 can be installed at the connection between the movable plate 24 and the telescopic rod 231 to monitor the flexion and extension angles of the knee joint in real time; The angle sensor 242 can transmit the knee joint angle data to the display control module 3 in real time. The processing unit 32 will analyze and process this angle data. During training, the display screen 35 will simultaneously display the current flexion and extension angle of the knee joint, so that the patient and doctor can intuitively understand the progress of the training. At the same time, this embodiment also includes electrode pads (not shown in the figure). When in use, the electrode pads are attached to the area around the patient's knee joint and are electrically connected to the display control module 3. When assisting training, the electrode pads can be used to provide functional electrical stimulation to the neuromuscular system, which can stimulate the quadriceps femoris muscle, strengthen the quadriceps femoris muscle, prevent knee joint muscle atrophy, and improve knee joint extension function.

[0048] This invention provides an auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture. The fixed module provides a stable and reliable training foundation for the patient while also prioritizing comfort, ensuring no discomfort during training. The adjustable backrest flexibly adapts to different patient postures and body types, further optimizing the training experience. The support platform, through a first sliding groove, facilitates the reciprocating movement of the leg during knee extension exercises. Furthermore, it maintains the leg in a relatively elevated and neutral position throughout the exercise, preventing internal or external rotation and ensuring effective rehabilitation. The coordinated operation of the pressure device and the telescopic rod precisely controls the pressure applied to the knee joint by the pressure ring, ensuring the scientific and effective training intensity. The pressure ring itself features a sliding design, flexibly adapting to different knee joint anatomical positions, improving the accuracy of personalized training. Simultaneously, the integrated high-precision pressure sensor monitors and provides feedback on pressure data in real time, offering a reliable basis for adjusting training parameters. The display and control module enables... The intelligent management of the entire training process, through efficient data processing and inter-module collaboration, allows the system to automatically adjust pressure levels based on the patient's real-time performance. It also clearly displays various information such as training time, pressure value, and number of exercises, greatly facilitating real-time monitoring of training progress for both patients and doctors. The silicone pads added inside the pressure ring not only reduce local pressure but also improve patient comfort, further optimizing the training experience and effectiveness. Bluetooth units and angle sensors enable seamless connectivity with smart terminal devices, allowing patients and doctors to easily access training data and set personalized parameters via mobile phones or tablets. Doctors can also remotely monitor the patient's training status and provide timely professional advice, significantly improving the convenience and scientific rigor of rehabilitation management. The electrode pads are applied around the patient's knee joint and are electrically connected to the display and control module. During assisted training, the electrode pads provide functional electrical stimulation to the neuromuscular system, stimulating the quadriceps femoris muscle, strengthening it, preventing knee muscle atrophy, and improving knee extension function.

[0049] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any equivalent substitutions or modifications made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention, based on the technical solution and inventive concept of the present invention, should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture, characterized in that, The system includes a fixed module (1), a training module (2), and a display control module (3). The fixed module (1) includes a base plate (11). The training module (2) includes support plates (21) located on both sides of the middle of the base plate (11). The support plates (21) are fixed above by a connecting plate (22). A pressure device (23) is provided on the surface of the connecting plate (22). A telescopic rod (231) is connected to the top of the pressure device (23) through the support plate (21). A movable plate (24) is fixedly connected to the end of the telescopic rod (231). The display control module (3) is an integrated multi-functional display screen (35), and the display control module (3) is connected to the connecting plate (22).

2. The auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base plate (11) has an adjustable backrest (12) at the head end and a sliding component (13) at the end.

3. The auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sliding component (13) includes a first groove (131) provided on the surface of the base plate (11) and a support platform (132) that slides and engages with the first groove (131).

4. The auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to claim 3, characterized in that, The support platform (132) is made of a rigid elastic material, with an open top and a fixed groove (133) connected to the bottom.

5. The auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner surfaces of the support plates (21) on both sides are provided with second sliding grooves (211); both ends of the movable plate (24) are respectively located in the second sliding grooves (211) on both sides.

6. The auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom surface of the movable plate (24) is provided with a third sliding groove (241), and a pressure ring (25) is slidably connected on the third sliding groove (241); a layer of silicone pad (252) is provided on the inner surface of the pressure ring (25), and a pressure sensor (251) is provided on the silicone pad (252).

7. The auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display control module (3) is equipped with a signal receiving / transmission unit (31), a processing unit (32), a control unit (33) and a power supply unit (34), and the modules are interconnected. The outer surface of the display control module (3) is equipped with a display screen (35), function keys (36) and a power switch (37).

8. The auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display control module (3) is also equipped with a Bluetooth unit (38).

9. The auxiliary device for preventing knee flexion contracture according to claim 1, characterized in that, An angle sensor (242) is also provided at the connection between the telescopic rod (231) and the movable plate (24), and the angle sensor (242) is electrically connected to each module inside the display control module (3).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Correcting brace for flexion contracture of knee joint

    CN218391361U