The Development of a Device to Objectively Measure Knee Joint Stiffness

INTRODUCTION
Stiffness of the joints subjectively can be described as resistance to movement, slowness in the mornings or after staying in a fixed position for a long period of time [1,2]. Objectively, stiffness can be defined as a resistance to motion measured within a normal range and plane of function [3]. With respect to knee joint stiffness, it still remains a significant topic of attention. It is an important clinical sign of musculoskeletal pathology, which if objecively quantified, may also prove a clinically relevant outcome measure for evaluating the efficacy of various rehabilitation approaches. A cost effective knee joint stiffness measurement apparatus that incorporates a ‘Torqsense’ Rotary Torque Transducer has been designed and developed. This project aims to evaluate this device by measuring both active and passive torque generated at the knee joint.