Introduction: A knee is a complex joint. Because of its complex anatomical structure, it is exposed to high functional requirements and external forces. There is a high incidence of an anterior cruciate ligament injury in alpine skiers. Medical staff usually decide whether to treat the injury conservatively or by surgical reconstruction of the ligament. Knee braces are divided into prophylactic, functional, and rehabilitative. Braces reduce shear forces, stabilize the knee joint, and control knee joint rotation. Therefore, the use of knee braces after the reconstruction of the anterior knee cruciate ligament is recommended for alpine skiers. Purpose: The purpose of this bachelor’s thesis was to explore and present knee braces that are suitable for knee cruciate ligament injury treatment in alpine skiers. Besides, we wanted to determine their efficiency based on the review of scientific and professional articles. Methods: Our main focus was on existing professional and scientific articles. The literature review was conducted using Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Pubmed, SpringerLink, and SAGE Journals databases. The literature used in our research was published in English and Slovenian language between the years 2010 and 2020. During the research for suitable literature, we focused primarily on studies that included anterior cruciate ligament injuries in skiers and described the use and efficiency of suitable knee braces. Results: Eight articles were included. Six of them illustrate a load of the anterior cruciate ligament during skiing, efficiency, and braces impact on the skier’s knee. One of the articles represents and illustrates the efficiency of new preventive knee braces made of solid material in connection with specialized compression underwear. The last one represents the impact of customized knee braces on professional skiers. Discussion and conclusion: The use of knee braces for alpine skiers is recommended when the anterior cruciate ligament injury occurs because it prevents additional damage on knee ligament structures. If only mechanical aspects are considered, we could hypothetically develop sports orthosis which could control shear force and internal knee joint rotation. Those could be used for injury prevention or rehabilitation. We notice a lack of research in this field. For a better insight of problems and solutions regarding anterior cruciate ligament injuries in skiers, therefore, further research is recommended.
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