Knee brace, in particular for treating and / or relieving gonarthrosis, method of manufacturing such a knee brace

Abstract

The present invention relates to a knee brace (10) for treating and / or relieving medial or lateral unicompartmental gonarthrosis, comprising a textile sleeve (20) comprising a front portion in which first and second elongate return elements (50, 60) are arranged so as to diverge from each other towards a second lateral side (20b) of the sleeve (20) while their first ends (52, 62) meet in a first region (90) adjacent to a first lateral side (20a) of the sleeve. The sleeve (20) comprises a rear portion in which third and fourth elongate elements are arranged so as to diverge from each other towards said second lateral side (20b) while their first ends meet in a second region adjacent to said first lateral side (20a). The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing such a knee brace (10). Figure for abstract: Fig.1.

Description

Title of the invention: Knee brace, in particular for treating and / or relieving gonarthrosis, method of manufacturing such a knee brace Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of knee braces, in particular for treating and / or relieving gonarthrosis.

[0002] The present invention also relates to the technical field of methods for manufacturing knee braces for treating and / or relieving gonarthrosis. Prior art

[0003] Gonarthrosis is osteoarthritis of the knee. It involves wear and tear and subsequent destruction of the articular cartilage in various areas of the knee joint. It is a chronic disease that is troublesome, even disabling, in everyday life.

[0004] In a non-limiting manner, the main risk factors for gonarthrosis are excess weight (overweight or obesity) on the knee joint, old knee trauma, poor alignment of the leg, and the patient's gender (women being more affected). There are different types of gonarthrosis, including femoro-tibial gonarthrosis, centered between the femur and the tibia. This type of osteoarthritis can occur on the medial side (i.e. the internal side) or the lateral side (i.e. the external side) of the knee. In this type of gonarthrosis, friction is generated between the femur and the tibia and can thus create pain in the patient.

[0005] There is therefore a need for a knee brace that can treat and / or relieve and / or limit the progression of gonarthrosis, that is easy to place correctly on the knee, washable, reusable, and comfortable. Statement of the invention

[0006] The present invention addresses the aforementioned problems in that it relates, according to a first aspect, to a knee brace, in particular for treating and / or relieving medial or lateral unicompartmental gonarthrosis, comprising a textile sleeve, said textile sleeve comprising a first opening delimiting at least in part an upper border and a second opening delimiting at least in part a lower border.

[0007] Advantageously, said textile sleeve comprises a front part and a rear part opposite the front part as well as first and second lateral sides.

[0008] Advantageously, the knee pad comprises:

[0009] - first, second, third and fourth elongate return elements extensible each having first and second ends, in particular at least one of said first, second, third and fourth elongate elements comprising an elastomeric material.

[0010] Advantageously, the first and second elongate return elements are arranged in, in particular secured to, the front part of the textile sleeve so that the first ends of the first and second elongate return elements meet in a first region adjacent to said first lateral side and the first and second elongate return elements diverge from each other towards the second lateral side. In addition, the third and fourth elongate elements are arranged in, in particular secured to, the rear part of the textile sleeve so that the first ends of the third and fourth elongate elements meet in a second region adjacent to said first lateral side, and the third and fourth elongate return elements diverge from each other towards the second lateral side.

[0011] Advantageously, the knee brace is suitable for treating and / or relieving gonarthrosis involving friction between the tibia and the femur.

[0012] Advantageously, the four elongated return elements are arranged so as to form a three-point biomechanical correction system in the anterior plane as well as in the posterior plane.

[0013] In particular, the first and second elongate return elements are arranged so as to form a system of three point regions (A1, A2, A3) (or so-called three-point system) of biomechanical correction in an anterior plane or along the anterior face of the knee brace, more particularly in the anterior part, comprising: - a first point region (A3) corresponding to said first region in which the first ends of the first and second elongate return elements converge and are arranged, in particular said first ends meet at first terminal ends, - a second point region (Al) in which the second end of the first elongate element converges and is arranged, in particular near the upper edge of the sleeve, - a third point region (A2) in which the second end of the second elongate element converges and is arranged, in particular near the lower edge of the sleeve.

[0014] In particular, the third and fourth elongate elements are arranged so as to form a system of three point regions (P1, P2, P3) (or so-called three-point system points) of biomechanical correction in a posterior plane or along the posterior face of the knee brace, more particularly in the posterior part, comprising: - a first point region (P3) corresponding to said second region in which the first ends of the third and fourth elongate return elements converge and are arranged, in particular said first ends meet at first terminal ends, - a second point region (PI) in which the second end of the third elongate element converges and is arranged, in particular near the upper edge of the sleeve, - a third point region (P2) in which the second end of the fourth elongate element converges and is arranged, in particular near the lower edge of the sleeve.

[0015] Advantageously, the first point regions A3 and P3 converge towards each other or are adjacent or even superimposed, in particular they join together.

[0016] Advantageously, the first point regions A3 and P3 are arranged on the side of the knee not suffering from osteoarthritis.

[0017] Advantageously, the posterior and anterior portions of the sleeve are arranged to cover respectively the posterior and anterior faces of the wearer's knee.

[0018] In particular, the posterior and anterior parts are arranged on either side of a frontal section plane (F) of the wearer, and therefore of the wearer's knee, passing through the first and second lateral sides of the textile sleeve, more particularly on either side of a frontal section plane of the knee joint comprising the distal end of the femur and the proximal part of the tibia. Textile sleeve

[0019] Advantageously, the textile sleeve has a generally substantially tubular shape (in particular longitudinally closed), in particular extending between an upper edge and a lower edge. In particular, the height (H) of the knee pad corresponds to the distance separating its upper and lower edges.

[0020] Advantageously, the first opening delimiting at least in part an upper edge is an opening for introducing the leg into the textile sleeve or the knee pad.

[0021] Advantageously, the second opening delimiting at least in part a lower edge is an exit opening for the leg of the textile sleeve or the knee pad.

[0022] The textile sleeve may be a textile tube of unitary textile construction, in particular of unitary knitted construction, i.e. in a single knitted tubular piece. In this case, the tubular sleeve may be knitted on a circular knitting machine or on a flat knitting machine with two needle beds.

[0023] Advantageously, the textile sleeve is arranged to substantially cover the perimeter of the knee, and to partially cover a region above the knee and at least partially a region below the knee.

[0024] In one embodiment, the textile sleeve, or the knee pad, has a minimum height greater than or equal to 10 cm and less than or equal to 50 cm, in particular greater than or equal to 15 cm or 20 cm or 25 cm, more particularly less than or equal to 45 cm or 40 cm or 35 cm or 30 cm.

[0025] In one embodiment, the textile sleeve, or the knee pad, has a lower edge whose perimeter (or circumference) is greater than or equal to 8 cm and less than or equal to 65 cm or 55 cm, in particular greater than or equal to 10 cm or 15 cm or 20 cm. For example, the knee brace or textile sleeve extends substantially at least 10 cm or 15 cm above the kneecap, for example approximately 17 cm + / -20% above the kneecap.

[0026] For example, the knee brace or textile sleeve extends substantially at least 5 cm or at least 10 cm below the kneecap, for example about 13 cm + / - 20% below the kneecap.

[0027] For example, the knee pad or textile sleeve extends substantially to the region having the greatest circumference of the thigh, and / or to the region having the greatest circumference of the calf.

[0028] Advantageously, the textile sleeve comprises, in particular is essentially made up of, textile front and rear parts.

[0029] Advantageously, the textile sleeve is knitted or woven.

[0030] In particular, the textile sleeve comprises a knitted or woven textile panel comprising first and second free longitudinal edges joined together, in particular by a seam, a weld, an adhesive agent, a heat-sealing strip optionally reinforced by a textile, or a combination thereof. In particular, the joined and assembled first and second longitudinal edges form the first and second lateral sides of the textile sleeve.

[0031] In one embodiment, the textile sleeve has a substantially frustoconical shape.

[0032] This truncated cone shape is advantageously obtained using rectilinear knitting technology in order to correspond to the anatomical shape of the knee area to be treated.

[0033] Advantageously, the textile sleeve comprises one or more elastic composite thread(s), in particular an elastic composite thread comprises an elastic core, in particular made of elastane, covered by one or more covering thread(s).

[0034] Advantageously, the textile sleeve comprises a knitted panel and one or more elastic composite yarn(s) woven into said knitted panel.

[0035] Advantageously, the textile sleeve comprises a knitted panel and one or more woven elastic composite yarn(s), and / or one or more elastic composite yarn(s) forming knitted stitches (i.e. forming knitted stitches on the reverse side and / or on the right side of the knitted panel) and / or one or more non-elastic yarn(s).

[0036] In the present text, non-elastic yarn preferably means a yarn not comprising an elastane or latex core.

[0037] Advantageously, a composite weft yarn is inserted in a substantially rectilinear manner between the right and wrong sides of the knitted panel without forming looped stitches on the right side and / or on the wrong side, possibly by forming a few loaded stitches.

[0038] Preferably, an elastic composite yarn has a linear mass greater than or equal to 300 dtex, more preferably greater than or equal to 500 dtex, or greater than or equal to 800 dtex, or even greater than or equal to 1000 dtex or 1200 dtex or 1400 dtex, for example 2000 dtex + / - 20%.

[0039] Preferably, an elastic composite yarn has a linear density less than or equal to 3000 dtex or 2600 dtex.

[0040] Preferably, the elastic core has a linear mass (dtex) greater than or equal to 25 dtex, more preferably greater than or equal to 100 dtex, preferentially greater than or equal to 300 dtex or even greater than or equal to 500 dtex or 700 dtex, or even greater than or equal to 1000 dtex or 1200 dtex.

[0041] Preferably, the elastic core has a linear mass (dtex) less than or equal to 2000 dtex, more preferably less than or equal to 1800 dtex, preferably less than or equal to 1600 dtex or 1400 dtex.

[0042] Preferably, the elastic core is a multifilament yarn or a monofilament yarn, in particular made of elastane.

[0043] The elastic composite yarn may comprise a first cover yarn, in particular non-elastic, for example a multifilament yarn or fiber yarn.

[0044] The elastic composite yarn may comprise a second covering yarn, in particular non-elastic, for example a multifilament yarn or fiber yarn.

[0045] In one example, a woven elastic composite yarn has a linear density of approximately 2000 dtex at + / - 20%.

[0046] In one example, a woven elastic composite yarn comprises an elastic core having a linear density of about 1300 dtex at + / - 20%.

[0047] In one example, an elastic composite yarn forming knitted stitches has a linear density of about 600 dtex at + / - 20%.

[0048] In one example, an elastic composite yarn forming knitted stitches comprises an elastic core having a linear density of about 300 dtex at + / - 20%.

[0049] Advantageously, the lower border has a circumference or perimeter less than or equal to the circumference or perimeter of the upper border.

[0050] In one embodiment, the textile sleeve or the basic textile panel forming the textile sleeve, in particular without the elongated return elements, has a surface mass greater than or equal to 400 g / m2, preferably less than or equal to 800 g / m2 or even less than or equal to 600 g / m2. Extendable elongated recall element(s) (first and / or second and / or third and / or fourth elongated recall element(s))

[0051] Advantageously, an elongate return element has a length delimited between its first and second ends, and a width delimited between first and second longitudinal edges.

[0052] Advantageously, an elongated return element has a width greater than or equal to 10 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 15 mm or 20 mm or 25 mm.

[0053] Advantageously, an elongated return element has a width less than or equal to 50 mm, preferably less than or equal to 45 mm or 40 mm or 35 mm.

[0054] Advantageously, an elongated return element has a thickness less than or equal to 8 mm, preferably less than or equal to 5 mm or 3 mm or 2 mm.

[0055] Advantageously, an elongated return element has a general strip shape, or a substantially elongated rectangular shape.

[0056] Preferably, an elongated return element has a surface mass greater than or equal to 100 g / m2 or 150 g / m2 or 200 g / m2.

[0057] Preferably, the first and / or second elongate return element(s) is / are arranged / secured on the external face and / or on the internal face of the front part of the sleeve, in particular on its external face.

[0058] Preferably, the third and / or fourth elongate return element(s) is / are arranged / secured on the external face and / or on the internal face of the front part of the sleeve, in particular on its external face.

[0059] Advantageously, the internal face of the posterior or anterior part is oriented directly opposite the knee.

[0060] Advantageously, the external face of the posterior or anterior part is oriented directly towards the outside of the orthosis or sleeve.

[0061] Preferably, the first and / or the second and / or the third and / or the fourth elongate return element(s) each comprises / comprise, or is or are each, in an extensible material, in particular in an elastomeric material.

[0062] Preferably, the first and / or the second and / or the third and / or the fourth elongate return element(s) each comprises / comprise, or is or are each, an extensible polymer strip, in particular in at least one elastomer, for example polyurethane or silicone. For example, said extensible polymer strip can be laminated or coated on the front part or the rear part of the textile sleeve, in particular on the internal or external face(s).

[0063] The first and / or the second and / or the third and / or the fourth elongate return element(s) each comprises / comprise, or is or are each, a textile strip, optionally comprising at least one elastic thread and / or coated with a stretchable polymer layer, in particular a polymer layer in one or more elastomer(s), for example polyurethane or silicone.

[0064] Said extensible material or polymer, or said elastomeric material may be a continuous or discontinuous polymeric layer disposed on the inner face and / or the outer face of the textile sleeve, and / or a knitted or woven yarn of a knitted or woven textile strip, and / or a knitted or woven yarn in the textile front part and / or the textile rear part of the textile sleeve, or a combination thereof.

[0065] When the elastomeric material is a yarn, it is preferably an elastomeric core yarn comprising one or more filaments, optionally with a cover comprising one or more cover yarn(s), in particular non-elastic.

[0066] In one embodiment, an elongate return element is an elongate textile return element in textile connection (in particular knitted or woven) with the textile sleeve (in particular knitted or woven), in particular integrated by knitting or weaving during the knitting or weaving of the textile sleeve, in particular during the knitting or weaving of the textile component / panel of the textile sleeve. In this case, preferably, an elongate return element is in the form of a knitted or woven strip-shaped zone extending, and integrated, in the textile sleeve, in particular comprising one or more specific knitted or woven elastic thread(s).

[0067] In one embodiment, an elongated return element comprises, in particular is essentially made up of, a knitted or woven or braided textile strip or in a nonwoven or a combination of the latter, and / or an extensible polymer layer, in particular in one or more elastomer(s).

[0068] For example, an elongated return element is a textile strip coated with a polymer layer (in particular as described above) or laminated with a polymer strip (in particular as described above), or an extensible polymer strip (in particular in at least one elastomer), possibly reinforced by fibers and / or a textile.

[0069] The elongated return element can then be heat-sealed, in particular heat-compressed, or glued via an adhesive agent, or even sewn, or a combination of these, onto the textile sleeve.

[0070] An elongated return element may comprise a single strip (comprising a textile strip and / or a polymeric strip or a combination thereof), or several strips (comprising a textile strip and / or a polymeric strip or a combination thereof) arranged in line with each other.

[0071] In the present text, the term “elastomeric material” means a material having the properties of an elastomer, in particular having an intrinsic elongation at break greater than or equal to 200% or 300% or 400%.

[0072] Preferably, a strip in an elastomeric material has an elongation at break greater than or equal to 200% or 300% or 400%, in particular has an elongation of approximately 100% or 150% with a residual deformation less than or equal to 10% or 5%.

[0073] The elastomer may be thermosetting or thermoplastic, for example being a natural or synthetic rubber (e.g. latex), or a polyurethane elastomer, in particular thermoplastic.

[0074] In the present text, the term “extensible material” or “extensible band” means a material or band capable of elongating by at least 50% or at least 100%, in particular by at least 150%, more particularly with a residual deformation of less than or equal to 10% or 5%. The deformation is preferably applied in the longitudinal direction.

[0075] The four elongated return elements are preferably each formed from a strip, in particular said strips are distinct from one another or one or more strips are part of the same part. For example, the orthosis may comprise four separate bands, said bands each having in particular a substantially rectangular shape.

[0076] For example, the four elongate elements may be alternately formed of two large intersecting strips (i.e. the intersection point corresponding to point A3 or P3), in particular each having a rectangular shape, or else be formed of two pieces each having a V shape (i.e. one piece comprising two strips forming two elongate elements), or else of a Y-shaped piece (comprising three strips forming three elongate elements) and a strip (forming the 4th elongate element), or else of an X-shaped pattern cut from a polymer sheet (comprising 4 strips forming 4 elongate elements), or of a combination of these in order to form a three-point system as described above on the front part and on the rear part.

[0077] Advantageously, the textile and / or polymer strip(s) are arranged to create an X-shaped pattern allowing a three-point system to be arranged on the front part and a three-point system on the rear part.

[0078] Advantageously, the elongate elements may be distinct from one another, and each in a different part, or two or three elongate elements may be in the same part, for example V-shaped or substantially Y-shaped, or the four elongate elements may be in a single and same part substantially X-shaped.

[0079] Said strip(s) may be a textile strip and / or a polymer strip as described above.

[0080] An elongation and / or an applied force in N / cm of a textile strip and / or a polymer strip, of the textile sleeve or of an elongated return element can be determined in this text according to the standard NF EN ISO 20932, dated February 2020. This standard is entitled “Determination of the elasticity of fabrics”. In particular, the principle is that a fabric specimen of specified dimension is stretched at a constant speed to either a specified force or a specified elongation for an agreed number of cycles, and its elasticity is determined by measuring several characteristics. The constant rate of elongation apparatus is defined in point 6 of the said standard and must in particular be able to operate at constant rates of elongation, in particular at an elongation rate of 500 mm per minute, the fabric specimen tested may be in a strip (method A) or in a loop (method B), preferably in a strip (method A). Knee brace

[0081] The knee brace is suitable for treating / relieving medial or lateral unicompartmental gonarthrosis, i.e. for a given knee (left or right), the knee brace can be arranged to treat osteoarthritis on the inside of said knee (medial gonarthrosis) or on the outside of said knee (lateral gonarthrosis). The first and second regions in which the first ends of the elongate return elements converge, in particular meet, are thus arranged in the area of ​​the knee joint not affected by osteoarthritis, for example arranged on the medial side of the knee when worn if the area of ​​the knee affected by gonarthrosis is arranged on the lateral side of the knee.

[0082] Advantageously, the second ends of the first and third elongate return elements are arranged adjacent to the upper edge of the textile sleeve.

[0083] Advantageously, the second ends of the second and fourth elongate return elements are arranged adjacent to the lower edge of the textile sleeve.

[0084] These last two arrangements make it possible to maximize the lever arms and therefore the moment exerted, in particular from the three-point system, on each of the faces (posterior and anterior) of the sleeve, and thus optimize the “spacing” of the compartment between the tibia and the femur, thus improving the management of gonarthrosis.

[0085] In a variant, the first and second regions are arranged in a substantially X shape whose central axis of symmetry passes substantially through the first lateral side.

[0086] Preferably, the central axis of symmetry is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the textile sleeve, in particular to the longitudinal axis of revolution of the textile sleeve.

[0087] Advantageously, the first and second regions are arranged in an X shape so that the first end of the third elongate element is substantially in the extension of and / or opposite the first end of the second elongate element or else that said first ends meet; and / or the first end of the fourth elongate element is substantially in the extension of and / or opposite the first end of the first elongate element or else that said first ends meet.

[0088] Advantageously, the first and second substantially X-shaped regions are arranged on the first lateral side of the textile sleeve, between the anterior and posterior parts, in particular along the axis of rotation of the knee.

[0089] In a variant, the first end of the third elongate element and the first end of the first elongate element are adjacent (or even join), and preferably the first end of the second elongate element and the first end of the fourth elongate element are adjacent (or even join).

[0090] In one embodiment, the first and / or second regions are arranged to cover the lateral, or medial, epicondyle of the femur.

[0091] In a variant, the first and second elongate return elements diverge from each other towards the second lateral side so that the second end of the first elongate element is adjacent to the upper edge and the second lateral side of the textile sleeve, and the second end of the second elongate element is adjacent to the lower edge and the second lateral side of the textile sleeve.

[0092] This arrangement optimizes the lever arm on the anterior portion of the sleeve, and therefore reduces pathological engagement of the tibia with the femur.

[0093] In particular, this arrangement produces a moment which opposes the natural moment produced during walking in order to unload the compartment of the injured knee on the second lateral side towards the anterior part.

[0094] In a variant, the third and fourth elongate elements diverge from each other towards the second lateral side so that the second end of the third elongate element is adjacent to (or joins) the upper edge and the second side lateral, and the second end of the fourth elongate element is adjacent to (or joins) the lower edge and the second lateral side.

[0095] This arrangement optimizes the lever arm on the posterior part of the sleeve, and therefore reduces the pathological engagement of the tibia with the femur.

[0096] In particular, this arrangement produces a moment which opposes the natural moment produced during walking in order to unload the compartment of the injured knee on the second lateral side towards the posterior part.

[0097] In a variant, the first elongate return element and the second elongate return element form an interior angle greater than or equal to 60°, preferably less than or equal to 120° or 110°, or from approximately 95° to + / - 10°.

[0098] This arrangement favors the lever arm, in particular the moment opposing the natural moment when walking on the compartment of the injured knee.

[0099] Advantageously, the angle must not be too high so that the second ends of the first and second elongate return elements tend towards the second lateral side in order to act on either side of the injured knee joint on the side opposite the first side of the first region.

[0100] Advantageously, however, the angle must be sufficiently large to exert a satisfactory lever arm. In a variant, the third elongate return element and the fourth elongate return element form an interior angle greater than or equal to 60°, preferably less than or equal to 120° or 110°, or of approximately 95° to + / - 10°.

[0101] This arrangement favors the lever arm, in particular the moment opposing the natural moment when walking on the compartment of the injured knee.

[0102] Advantageously, the angle must not be too high so that the second ends of the third and fourth elongate elements tend towards the second lateral side in order to act on either side of the injured knee joint on the side opposite the first side of the second region.

[0103] Advantageously, however, the angle must be sufficiently large to exert a satisfactory lever arm.

[0104] In one variant, the knee pad comprises a vertical reinforcing whalebone, in particular flexible, extending substantially along the second lateral side.

[0105] Advantageously, the whale extends along the lateral side of the sleeve opposite the first lateral side, and therefore on the side of the injured knee area in order to relieve the knee.

[0106] Advantageously, said whalebone makes it possible to stiffen the structure of the knee pad and makes it possible to guarantee the effectiveness of the return forces created by the elongated return elements.

[0107] In a variant, the textile sleeve comprises, in particular, a knitted component comprising columns of stitches and rows of stitches, and said knitted component comprises one or more extensible region(s) having, in particular said knitted component has, a force less than or equal to 20 N / cm, preferably less than or equal to 15 N / cm, more preferably less than or equal to 10 N / cm, preferably greater than or equal to IN / cm, in particular greater than or equal to 2N / cm or even 3N / cm or 4N / cm, for example greater than or equal to 5N / cm to within + / -10%, to obtain an elongation of at least 20% or at least 30% or 40%, or even an elongation of 20% or 30% or 40%, in at least one of the directions chosen from the direction of the columns of stitches and the rows of stitches.

[0108] Advantageously, this is a force measured in a region of the textile sleeve not comprising an elongated return element.

[0109] In a variant, the textile sleeve comprises, in particular, a knitted component comprising columns of stitches and rows of stitches, and said knitted component comprises one or more extensible region(s) having, in particular said knitted component has, a force greater than or equal to 0.5 N / cm, in particular greater than or equal to 1 N / cm or even 2 N / cm or 3N / cm, for example greater than or equal to 5N / cm to within + / - 20%, to obtain an elongation of at least 20% or at least 30% or 40%, or even an elongation of 20% or 30% or 40%, in at least one of the directions chosen from the direction of the columns of stitches and the rows of stitches.

[0110] In a variant, a region of the knee pad comprising the textile sleeve and said first elongate return element, or any one of the second, third and fourth elongate element(s), having a longitudinal direction 11 has a force greater than or equal to 3N / cm (in particular to within + / - 10%) or 5N / cm (in particular to within + / - 10%), for an elongation of at least 20% or at least 30% or at least 40%, or even an elongation of 20% or 30% or 40%, in the longitudinal direction 11.

[0111] Said region advantageously has a substantially strip shape, and the direction 11 corresponds to the longitudinal direction of said strip.

[0112] Advantageously, said force is less than or equal to 50N / cm, or 40N / cm or 36N / cm (+ / - 20%), possibly less than or equal to 20N / cm or 15 N / cm or 10N / cm, to obtain an elongation of at least 20% or at least 30% or at least 40%.

[0113] In an exemplary embodiment, said force is greater than or equal to 20N / cm, preferably less than or equal to 40N / cm, to obtain an elongation of at least 20% or at least 30% or at least 40%.

[0114] In a variant, a first elongate return element (i.e. not combined with a textile sleeve), or any one of the second, third and fourth elongate element(s), having a longitudinal direction 11 has a greater force or equal to 3N / cm (in particular to + / - 10%) or to 5N / cm (in particular to + / - 10%) for an elongation of at least 20% or at least 30% or 40%, or an elongation of 20% or 30% or 40%, in the longitudinal direction 11.

[0115] Advantageously, said force is less than or equal to 50N / cm or 40N / cm or 36N / cm (+ / - 20%), possibly less than or equal to 20N / cm or 15N / cm or 10N / cm, to obtain an elongation of at least 20% or at least 30% or at least 40%, or an elongation of 20% or 30% or 40%.

[0116] In an exemplary embodiment, said force is greater than or equal to 20N / cm and less than or equal to 40N / cm to obtain an elongation of at least 20% or at least 30% or at least 40%, or even an elongation of 20% or 30% or 40%.

[0117] Preferably, the values ​​of forces and elongations are measured in this text according to the standard NF EN ISO 20932, dating from February 2020 cited above.

[0118] In a variant, the textile sleeve comprises at least one lightweight knitted region having a total linear mass Tl (dtex), in particular a region at least partially covering the popliteal fossa, and further comprises a solid knitted region having a linear mass T2 (dtex), and T2 is greater than Tl.

[0119] This arrangement makes it possible to arrange one or more lightweight knitted region(s), i.e. with a lower surface mass (g / m2) than the surface mass of other knitted regions of the sleeve, and therefore promoting contact with a sensitive area of ​​the body, such as the popliteal fossa of the knee, and / or promoting the evacuation of heat and / or perspiration, comfort and the positioning of the knee pad.

[0120] This arrangement also facilitates the correct positioning of the knee pad (the lightened areas intuitively covering the popliteal fossa for example).

[0121] Advantageously, a lightened knitted region is adjacent to a solid knitted region.

[0122] Advantageously, a lightweight knitted region shares a common boundary with a solid knitted region. In one variant, the textile sleeve comprises at least one lightweight knitted region not comprising woven knitted yarn, in particular a region at least partially covering the popliteal fossa.

[0123] In one variant, the textile sleeve comprises at least one knitted region comprising at least one knitted clamp, in particular one or more sets of knitted clamps.

[0124] Preferably, said knitted region at least partially covers the popliteal fossa.

[0125] For example, the knitted region covering at least the popliteal fossa comprises a lateral set of knitted clips and a medial set of knitted clips, said sets being arranged on either side of the popliteal fossa.

[0126] Advantageously, a knitted clamp comprises knitted decreases, for example arranged in a determined shape extending over several rows of stitches and / or columns of stitches.

[0127] Advantageously, a knitted clamp comprises the addition of one or more portions of rows of stitches and / or the removal of one or more portions of rows of stitches.

[0128] This arrangement makes it possible to arrange an anatomical knitted region, and can be obtained by a knitting step comprising one or more knitted arrowing steps (in particular, an arrowing step is a step of adding or removing a portion of a row of stitches or a row of stitches in order to deform a knitted region).

[0129] In one variant, the textile sleeve comprises a raised knitted region comprising several hollow rows alternating with several solid knitted areas.

[0130] Preferably, a hollow row comprises a number of knitted yarns lower than the number of knitted yarns in a solid knitted area.

[0131] This arrangement makes it possible to create a knitted region that promotes the evacuation of heat and perspiration and conforms to the shape of the kneecap.

[0132] In a variant, the knee pad comprises a pad, in particular a cushioning and / or reinforcing pad, secured both in the first and second regions.

[0133] Advantageously, the pad has a substantially circular, or even annular, shape, i.e. it includes a central through recess.

[0134] Advantageously, the pad is arranged on the side of the knee not affected by osteoarthritis, i.e. along the first lateral side, in particular straddling the anterior and posterior parts.

[0135] When the pad is a cushioning pad, the latter improves comfort.

[0136] When the pad is a reinforcement pad, it makes it possible to accentuate the effect of dump.

[0137] It is possible to combine the cushioning and reinforcement functions.

[0138] The pad may be made of a foam material or a foamed or non-foamed polymeric part (for example polyurethane).

[0139] The subject of the present invention, according to a second aspect, is a method of manufacturing a knee brace for the treatment of medial or lateral unicompartmental gonarthrosis, in particular according to any one of the variant embodiments with reference to the first aspect of the invention, comprising the steps: a) providing a textile support, in particular substantially flat or tubular in shape, comprising an upper border, a lower border, optionally first and second free lateral edges, and rear and front parts separated by first and second lateral sides, b) arranging the first and second extensible elongate return elements each comprising first and second ends on the front part of the textile support, in particular on its front face, such that the first ends of the first and second extensible elongate return elements meet in a first region adjacent to said first lateral side and the first and second extensible elongate return elements diverge from each other towards the second lateral side, and c) arranging the third and fourth extensible elongate return elements each comprising first and second ends on the rear part of the textile support, in particular on its rear face, such that the first ends of the third and fourth extensible elongate return elements meet in a second region adjacent to said second lateral side and the third and fourth extensible elongate return elements diverge from each other towards the second lateral side.Optionally, at least one of the first, second, third and fourth elongate return elements comprises an elastomeric material.

[0140] Optionally, the method comprises a step d) during which the first and second lateral edges of the substantially flat textile support which are free together are joined to form the textile support into a sleeve. Preferably, the assembled first and second free lateral edges form the first lateral side of the sleeve.

[0141] The textile tubular sleeve can be knitted on a circular knitting machine (single or double needle bed) or even knitted on a double needle bed or four needle bed flat knitting machine.

[0142] The tubular sleeve can thus be a textile tube coming out of a knitting machine (in particular without a manufacturing step for shaping it into a tube).

[0143] The tubular sleeve may alternatively be formed from a textile component in the form of a support, in particular a panel, a substantially flat textile whose two lateral edges are joined and assembled, for example by a seam, a weld, an adhesive agent (heat-sealing strip for example).

[0144] Preferably, the tubular sleeve comprises a finishing seam, in particular for securing the two lateral edges of the textile support, arranged along the first lateral side of the sleeve.

[0145] In a variant, at least one of the first, second, third and fourth elongate return elements has a force greater than or equal to 3N / cm (to within + / - 10%) or 5N / cm (to within + / - 10%) to obtain an elongation of at least 20% or at least 30% or 40%, or even an elongation of 20% or 30% or 40%, in a longitudinal direction at least one of the directions chosen from the direction of the columns of stitches and the rows of stitches.

[0146] This is advantageously a force measured on a single elongated return element, i.e. not secured to the tubular sleeve.

[0147] In a variant, the textile support is knitted on a flat knitting machine comprising a first needle bed and a second needle bed, and the textile support comprises at least one region knitted in relief, in particular covering at least in part the knee area, the stitch pattern of which comprises needles on a given needle bed each supporting at least one thread which are moved by several needles on this same given needle bed in the knitting direction, for example moved by at least five needles, said given needle bed being chosen from the first and second needle beds, and / or the stitch pattern of which comprises stitches transferred from a first needle bed to a second needle bed.

[0148] This arrangement makes it possible to create one or more knitted regions in relief, facilitating the placement of the knee pad around the knee and improving comfort.

[0149] In a variant, the knitted textile support comprises at least one lightweight knitted region having a total linear mass Tl (dtex), in particular a region at least partially covering the popliteal fossa, and further comprises a solid knitted region having a linear mass T2 (dtex), and T2 is greater than Tl.

[0150] This arrangement makes it possible to create less thick and therefore more comfortable areas to come into contact with fragile areas of the body, and / or promoting the evacuation of heat and / or humidity.

[0151] The lightened zone(s) may also be arranged substantially over all or part along the first lateral side of the tubular sleeve, allowing the sleeve to deform more easily and thus leaving more space for the kneecap to improve comfort. This arrangement also makes the positioning of the knee pad more intuitive.

[0152] In one variant, the knitted textile support comprises at least one lightweight knitted region not comprising woven knitted yarn, in particular a region at least partially covering the popliteal fossa.

[0153] In one variant, the knitted textile support comprises at least one knitted region comprising at least one knitted clamp, in particular one or more sets of knitted clamps.

[0154] Preferably, said knitted region at least partially covers the popliteal fossa.

[0155] For example, the knitted region covering at least the popliteal fossa comprises a lateral set of knitted clips and a medial set of knitted clips, said sets being arranged on either side of the popliteal fossa.

[0156] Advantageously, a knitted clamp comprises knitted decreases, for example arranged in a determined shape extending over several rows of stitches and / or columns of stitches.

[0157] Advantageously, a knitted clamp comprises the addition of one or more portions of rows of stitches and / or the removal of one or more portions of rows of stitches.

[0158] This arrangement makes it possible to arrange an anatomical knitted region, and can be obtained by a knitting step comprising one or more knitted arrowing steps (in particular the arrows correspond to decreases, for example by knitting several stitches together on the same row of stitches).

[0159] The alternative embodiments, definitions, embodiments defined with reference to the first aspect of the invention may be combined independently of one another with the alternative embodiments, definitions and embodiments defined with reference to the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa. Description of the drawings

[0160] The present invention will be better understood on reading the following embodiments, cited without limitation, and illustrated by the figures in which:

[0161] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] schematically represents a first example of a knee brace according to the invention seen from its front face, and from its external face;

[0162] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] schematically represents the first example of knee brace of [Fig.l] seen from its posterior face, and from its external face;

[0163] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] schematically represents the first example of knee brace of figures 1 and 2 seen according to its first lateral side bordering the anterior and posterior parts, and according to its external face;

[0164] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] schematically represents the first example of knee brace of figures 1 to 3 seen according to its second lateral side bordering the anterior and posterior parts, and according to its external face;

[0165] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] schematically represents a first variant of the first example of knee brace of figures 1 to 4 seen along its second lateral side bordering the anterior and posterior parts and along its internal face;

[0166] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] schematically represents a second variant of the first example of knee brace of figures 1 to 4 seen according to its first lateral side bordering the anterior and posterior parts and according to its internal face;

[0167] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] schematically represents, seen from the front and flat, a first example of a knitted textile component intended for the manufacture of the first example of knee pad shown in Figures 1 to 4;

[0168] [Fig-8] [Fig.8] schematically represents the operation of the system of three point regions exerted by the first example of knee brace in relation to the femur and the tibia at the knee;

[0169] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] schematically represents an example of the mesh pattern of a raised knitted region, in particular of the knitted textile component of the textile tubular sleeve of figures 1 to 4. Description of the embodiments

[0170] The first example of knee brace 10 according to the invention, in particular for treating and / or relieving medial or lateral unicompartmental gonarthrosis, comprises a textile sleeve 20, in particular of substantially tubular shape, more particularly of truncated cone shape.

[0171] The textile sleeve 20 comprises a first opening 22 delimiting an upper edge 24, or upper border, and a second opening 26 delimiting a lower edge 28, or lower border. Advantageously, the textile sleeve 20 has a minimum height H extending between the upper 24 and lower 28 edges.

[0172] The textile sleeve 20 comprises a textile front portion 30 and a textile rear portion 40 opposite the front portion 30 as well as first and second lateral sides (20a, 20b).

[0173] In particular, the front 30 and rear 40 parts are arranged on either side of a frontal section plane F.

[0174] The knee pad 10 further comprises first, second, third and fourth extensible elongate return elements (50,60,70,80) each having first (52,62,72,82) and second ends (54,64,74,84).

[0175] Advantageously, the first and second elongate return elements (50, 60) are secured to the front part 30 of the textile sleeve 20 so that the first ends (52, 62) of the first and second elongate elements (50, 60) meet in a first region 90 adjacent to said first lateral side 20a and positioned on the side opposite the side of the knee suffering from gonarthrosis.

[0176] By way of non-limiting example, the set of lines 23 designates in Figures 1 to 4 a knitted region for receiving the kneecap (for example obtained according to the stitch pattern of [Fig.9]).

[0177] By way of non-limiting example, the set of dotted lines 27 designates a knitted region for receiving the popliteal fossa of the knee comprising knitted regions arrowed as described above.

[0178] Advantageously, the first and second elongate return elements (50, 60) diverge from each other towards the second lateral side 20b so that the second end 54 of the first elongate element 50 is adjacent to the upper edge 24 and to the second lateral side 20b, and the second end 64 of the second elongate member 60 is adjacent the lower edge 28 and the second lateral side 20b. Preferably, the first elongate member 50 and the second elongate member 60 form an interior angle of about 95° to + / - 10°.

[0179] Advantageously, the third and fourth elongate return elements (70, 80) are secured to the rear portion 40 of the textile sleeve 20 so that the first ends (72, 82) of the third and fourth elongate return elements (70, 80) meet in a second region 100 adjacent to said first lateral side 20a. The third and fourth elongate return elements (70, 80) diverge from each other towards the second lateral side 20b so that the second end 74 of the third elongate element 70 is adjacent to the upper edge 24 and to the second lateral side 20b, and the second end 84 of the fourth elongate element 80 is adjacent to the lower edge 28 and to the second lateral side 20b. Preferably, the third elongate element 70 and the fourth elongate element 80 form an interior angle of approximately 95° to + / - 10°.

[0180] The first end 72 of the third elongate element 70 and the first end 52 of the first elongate element 50 are adjacent, and the first end 62 of the second elongate element 60 and the first end 82 of the fourth elongate element 80 are adjacent.

[0181] Advantageously, the first and second elongate return elements (50, 60) are arranged so as to form a system of three point regions (A1, A2, A3) of biomechanical correction along the front face 12 of the knee pad 10, and more particularly in the front part 30.

[0182] Advantageously, the third and fourth elongate return elements (70, 80) are also arranged so as to form a system of three point regions (P1, P2, P3) of biomechanical correction but according to the posterior face 14 of the knee pad 10, more particularly in the posterior part 40.

[0183] This system thus includes: - a first point region A320 corresponding to said first region 90 in which the first ends (52, 62) of the first and second elongate return elements (50, 60) converge and are arranged, - a second point region A120 in which the second end 52 of the first elongate return element 50 converges and is arranged, in particular near the upper edge 24, - a third point region A220 in which the second end 64 of the second elongate element 60 converges and is arranged, in particular near the lower edge 28;

[0184] - a first point region P320 corresponding to said second region 100 in which the first ends (72,82) of the third and fourth elongate return elements (70,80) converge and are arranged, - a second point region P120 in which the second end 74 of the third elongate element 70 converges and is arranged, in particular near the upper edge 24, - a third point region P220 in which the second end 84 of the fourth elongate element 80 converges and is arranged, in particular near the lower edge 24.

[0185] Advantageously, the first point regions A320 and P320 converge towards each other and are adjacent.

[0186] Advantageously, the first point regions A320 and P320 are arranged on the side opposite the side or compartment of the knee suffering from osteoarthritis.

[0187] Advantageously, the first and second regions (90,100) are arranged in an X shape whose central axis of symmetry (Sx) passes substantially through the first lateral side 20a.

[0188] Preferably, each of the first, second, third and fourth elongate elements (50, 60, 70, 80) is a textile strip coated with an elastomer layer, in particular in a polyurethane elastomer. The elongate elements (50, 60, 70, 80) are advantageously heat-sealed on the external face 25a of the front 30 and rear 40 parts of the sleeve 20. In particular, the elastomer layer is thermoplastic so that it can be bonded to the external face 25a of the sleeve 20 by thermocompression, i.e. by applying a determined pressure and a determined temperature greater than or equal to the softening or melting temperature of the elastomer layer. It is possible to reinforce the joining of the elongate elements (50, 60, 70, 80) by a seam.

[0189] The elongated elements each preferably have a force greater than or equal to 3N / cm to obtain an elongation of at least 20% or at least 30% or 40%, or even an elongation of 20% or 30% or 40% (according to standard NF EN ISO 20932), in particular an elongation of 40%.

[0190] By way of non-limiting example, the regions of the knee pad 10 comprising the textile sleeve 20 and the elongate return elements have in their longitudinal directions a force of approximately 25 Newtons to obtain an elongation of 40% (according to standard NF EN ISO 20932 dating from 2020).

[0191] By way of non-limiting example, the textile sleeve 20 has a force of approximately IN / cm in the direction of the columns of stitches or rows of stitches to obtain an elongation of 40% (according to standard NF EN ISO 20932 dating from 2020).

[0192] [Fig.5] illustrates a first variant of the knee pad 10 upside down in which the knee pad 10 comprises a vertical reinforcing rib 130 arranged on the internal face 25b of the sleeve 20, in particular flexible, extending substantially along the second lateral side 20b on the internal face 20b of the textile sleeve 20. This arrangement makes it possible to stiffen the flexible textile sleeve 20.

[0193] [Fig.6] illustrates a second variant of the knee pad 10 in which the knee pad 10 comprises a pad 140, in particular a cushioning and / or reinforcing pad, substantially annular in shape, secured both in the first and second regions (90,100) on the internal face 20b of the textile sleeve 20.

[0194] [Fig.7] schematically illustrates the system of three point regions (A120, A220, A320, P120, P220, P330) arranged in the front 30 and rear 40 parts of an example of a textile component 150, in particular knitted, which is in this example flat and therefore arranged flat, before being shaped into a textile sleeve 20. The textile component 150 comprises first and second lateral edges 152, 154 which are joined and secured, in particular by sewing, to form the sleeve 20. The sleeve 20 can be alternatively knitted on a circular knitting machine.

[0195] Advantageously, the textile support or component 150 thus comprises the first, second, third and fourth elongate return elements (50, 60, 70, 80) secured along its external face 150a in a substantially diamond-shaped pattern. The point regions A320 and P320 are thus substantially superimposed, or adjacent. Advantageously, this arrangement makes it possible to apply a moment which counterbalances the natural moment applied to the knee when it is moved, in particular when walking.

[0196] [Fig.8] schematically represents the operation of the system with three point regions, called three unloading points, on the knee joint comprising the distal part of the femur 160 and the proximal part of the tibia 170, thus allowing the reestablishment of a non-pathological space between the femur and the tibia following the correction provided by the knee brace. We thus observe an evolution of the position of the joint from an uncorrected position on the left part of [Fig.8] to the corrected position illustrated on the right part of [Fig.8].

[0197] [Fig.9] shows a preferred, non-limiting example of the stitch pattern 200 of the textile sleeve 20, for example of the flat knitted support or component 150, which is knitted on a flat knitting machine comprising first and second needle beds.

[0198] This stitch pattern 200 represents in particular the knitted area of ​​the sleeve 20 intended to cover at least part of the area of ​​the kneecap.

[0199] Advantageously, said knitted zone comprises an elastic weft yarn 210 (for example 1280 dtex for the elastic core, and with an opening comprising 4 threads of 78 dtex and 34 strands 4 / 78 / 34, i.e. a final of 2000 dtex at + / - 20%), a synthetic thread 220, in particular non-elastic, knitted on the front and back needle beds (for example 2*2 / 78 / 46, i.e. a final of 300 dtex + / -10%), in particular forming ribbed stitches, for example in polyamide, and an elastic thread 230, knitted on at least one of the needle beds, in particular in elastane (for example 310 dtex for the elastic core with a cover comprising a thread of 78 dtex, i.e. a final count of 600 dtex + / -20%).

[0200] In the example of a precise stitch pattern shown in [Fig.9], in phase q> 1 on the rows of stitches numbered 1 to 3, the three yarn guides supporting the yarns 210, 220 and 230 remain on hold after the 1st needle. Then in phase q> 2, the stitches with the yarn 230 formed on the front needle bed (for example a first needle bed) are transferred to the back needle bed as shown on row of stitches 4. Row of stitches 5 is knitted on a forward pass with the yarn 230 and row of stitches 6 is knitted with the yarn 230 on the reverse pass. Finally, in phase q>3, the three yarn guides supporting yarns 210, 220 and 230 are pushed back in the opposite direction without knitting to be in the correct knitting direction on rows of stitches 7 to 9 and then are knitted from the 12th needle on the rest of rows 7 to 9. Rows of stitches 10 to 12 again represent the first phase q> 1.Phases 1 to 3 are repeated for example in the patella region in the anterior part of the sleeve.

[0201] This arrangement makes it possible to create functionalized knitted zones, in this specific example in relief, in particular less thick and / or more airy, or even having a particular shape facilitating the identification of the placement of the knee pad.

[0202] In operation, the knee brace 10, in particular for a right knee with the treatment of medial (internal) gonarthrosis, is arranged on the knee of the patient suffering from gonarthrosis. The X-shape arranged along the first lateral side 20a is arranged against the side of the uninjured knee joint, i.e. on the side opposite the painful side where the osteoarthritis develops (here along the second lateral side 20b). The elongate return elements 50 to 80 exert return forces towards the second lateral side 20b and therefore towards the side of the knee compartment to be treated, and towards the upper and lower edges of the sleeve 20 on either side of the injured knee compartment. This arrangement makes it possible to correct the position of the distal part of the femur relative to the proximal part of the tibia, and thus to treat and / or relieve the patient.

[0203] The knee brace according to the invention is advantageously light, dynamic, without tedious adjustment (intuitive installation), dedicated to unicompartmental gonarthrosis while applying effective support and correction.

Claims

Claims

1. Knee brace (10), in particular for treating and / or relieving medial or lateral gonarthrosis, comprising a textile sleeve (20), said textile sleeve (20) comprises a first opening (22) delimiting at least in part an upper edge (24) and a second opening (26) delimiting at least in part a lower edge (28), said textile sleeve (20) comprising a front part (30) and a rear part (40) opposite the front part (30) as well as first and second lateral sides (20a, 20b), characterized in that the knee brace (10) comprises: - first, second, third and fourth extensible elongate return elements (50, 60, 70, 80) each having first (52, 62, 72, 82) and second ends (54, 64, 74, 84), - in that the first and second elongate return elements (50, 60) are arranged in, in particular secured to, the front part (30) of the textile sleeve (20) so that the first ends (52,62) first and second elongate elements (50,60) meet in a first region (90) adjacent to said first lateral side (20a) and in that the first and second elongate return elements (50,60) diverge from each other towards the second lateral side (20b), - in that the third and fourth elongate return elements (70,80) are arranged in, in particular secured to, the rear part (40) of the textile sleeve (20) so that the first ends (72,82) of the third and fourth elongate return elements (70,80) meet in a second region (100) adjacent to said first lateral side (20a), and in that the third and fourth elongate return elements (70,80) diverge from each other towards the second lateral side (20b).,

2. Knee brace (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second regions (90,100) are arranged in an X shape whose central axis of symmetry (Sx) passes substantially through the first lateral side (20a).

3. Knee brace (10) according to either of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the first end (72) of the third elongate return element (70) and the first end (52) of the first elongate return element (50) are adjacent, and preferably the first end (62) of the second elongate return element (60) and the first end (82) of the fourth elongate return element (80) are adjacent.

4. Knee brace (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first (90) region and / or the second region (100) is / are arranged to cover the lateral, or medial, epicondyle of the femur.

5. Knee brace (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first and second elongate return elements (50, 60) diverge from each other towards the second lateral side (20b) so that the second end (54) of the first elongate element (50) is adjacent to the upper edge and to the second lateral side, and the second end of the second elongate element is adjacent to the lower edge and to the second lateral side.

6. Knee brace (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the third and fourth elongate return elements (70, 80) diverge from each other towards the second lateral side (20b) so that the second end (74) of the third elongate return element (70) is adjacent to the upper edge (24) and to the second lateral side (20b), and the second end (84) of the fourth elongate return element (80) is adjacent to the lower edge (24) and to the second lateral side (20b).

7. Knee brace (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the first elongate return element (50) and the second elongate return element (60) form an interior angle greater than or equal to 60°, preferably less than or equal to 120°.

8. Knee brace (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the third elongate return element (70) and the fourth elongate return element (80) form an interior angle greater than or equal to 60°, preferably less than or equal to 120°.

9. Knee brace (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it comprises a vertical reinforcing whale (130), in particular flexible, extending substantially along the second lateral side (20b).

10. Knee brace (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the textile sleeve (20) comprises a knit comprising columns of stitches and rows of stitches, and in that said knit has a force less than or equal to 10 N / cm to obtain an elongation of at least 20% in at least one of the directions chosen from the direction of the columns of stitches and the rows of stitches.

11. Knee brace (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the region of the knee brace comprising the textile sleeve (20) and said first elongate return element (50) having a longitudinal direction 11 has a force greater than or equal to 3N / cm to obtain an elongation of at least 20% in the longitudinal direction 11.

12. Knee brace (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the textile sleeve (20) comprises at least one lightweight knitted region having a total linear mass Tl (dtex), in particular covering at least in part the popliteal fossa, and a solid knitted region having a linear mass T2 (dtex), and in that T2 is greater than Tl.

13. Knee brace (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that it comprises a pad (140) secured both in the first and second regions (90,100).

14. A method of manufacturing a knee brace (10) for the treatment of medial or lateral unicompartmental gonarthrosis, in particular according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that it comprises: a) providing a textile support (150), in particular substantially flat or tubular, comprising an upper edge (24), a lower edge (28), optionally first and second free lateral edges (152, 154), and posterior (30) and anterior (40) parts separated by first and second lateral sides (20a, 20b), b) arranging first and second extensible elongate return elements (50, 60) each comprising first and second ends (52, 62) on the anterior part (30) of the textile support (150) so that the first ends (52, 62) of the first and second extensible elongate return elements (50,60) join in a first region (90) adjacent to said first lateral side (20a) and the first and second elongate return elements (50,60) diverge from each other towards the second lateral side (20b), c) having third and fourth extensible elongate return elements (70,80) each comprising the first (72,82) and, second (74,84) ends on the rear part (40) of the textile support (150) so that the first ends (72,82) of the third and fourth elongate return elements (70,80) meet in a second region (100) adjacent to said second lateral side (20b) and the third and fourth elongate return elements (70,80) diverge from each other towards the second lateral side (20b), optionally the substantially flat textile support (150) comprises first and second free lateral edges (152,154) and the method comprises a step d) during which the first and second lateral edges (152,154) of the textile support (150) which are free are secured together to form a sleeve (20) the textile support (150).

15. Manufacturing method according to claim 14, characterized in that at least one of the first, second, third and fourth elongate return elements (50, 60, 70, 80) has a force greater than or equal to 3N / cm to obtain an elongation of at least 20% in at least one of the directions chosen from the direction of the columns of stitches and the rows of stitches.

16. Manufacturing method according to either of claims 14 and 15, characterized in that the textile support (150) is knitted on a flat knitting machine comprising a first needle bed and a second needle bed, and in that the textile support (150) comprises a textile region knitted in relief, in particular covering at least in part the knee area, the stitch pattern (200) of which comprises needles on a given needle bed each supporting at least one thread (230) and which are moved by several needles on this same given needle bed, in particular in the knitting direction, said given needle bed being chosen from the first and second needle beds, and / or the stitch pattern of which comprises stitches transferred from a first needle bed to a second needle bed.

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