A lockable hinge for use in orthopedic braces is provided. When used in a
knee brace, the present hinge provides a knee-immobilizing brace that
assists persons with standing and/or walking. The hinge is easily
converted from a locked mode to a free range of motion mode and vice
versa. When the hinge is in the locked mode, patients are better able to
stand and walk. With the push of a button, the patient can bend his or
her knee to sit or lie down more comfortably. When the hinge is in the
free range of motion mode, patients are better able to participate in
physical therapy activities without the hinge locking.