A flexible knee orthosis with buttress pads is primarily used to prevent which condition?

A flexible knee orthosis with buttress pads serves the primary purpose of preventing subluxation of the patella. The design of the orthosis incorporates specially positioned pads that help maintain the alignment of the patella during movement, which is crucial for individuals who experience instability or dislocation in this area. By applying lateral or medial pressure on the patella, the buttress pads help to stabilize it within the femoral groove, thus preventing it from shifting out of its normal alignment or subluxating.

While the other options refer to important knee functions and issues, they do not directly relate to the specific role of the orthosis with buttress pads. Excessive range of motion (ROM) can be managed by other types of braces, while rotation of the fibula is not typically addressed with this design. Additionally, hyperextension may be prevented by different features within knee orthoses that specifically limit extension without focusing on patellar position. The unique function of the buttress pads makes them particularly effective for treating patellar subluxation, highlighting the importance of this design in orthotic treatment.