Orthopedic component for use with an orthopedic brace

An orthopedic device, comprising:

• a rigid frame;
• a flexible subshell connected to and extending flexibly outwardly from the rigid frame, the subshell defining first and second side portions extending from a central portion, the subshell defining at least one opening defined by the first side portion and overlapping a portion of the rigid frame;
• an elongate strap having at least one end directly connected to at least the first side portion, the strap urging the second end portion to bend relative to the rigid frame;
• a first tightenable fastener adjustably secured to the rigid frame and extending through the at least one opening, wherein the first side portion of the subshell is adjustable in location relative to the rigid frame;
• wherein the at least one opening is defined by a series of at least two slots located incrementally away from a periphery of the rigid frame;
• wherein the subshell defines at least one aperture at the central portion thereof through which extends at least one second tightenable fastener to mechanically and removably secure the subshell to the frame by engaging the frame.

A knee brace, comprising:

• a rigid frame defining lateral and medial sides and a central portion, the frame including a plurality of structural elements, the plurality of structural elements including proximal and distal frame assemblies connected to one another by at least one hinge;
• at least one strap connecting to the lateral and medial sides of the frame;
• and
• a flexible subshell connected to and extends laterally outwardly from the frame to at least one of lateral or medial sides of the knee brace, the subshell depending freely from the frame, the subshell defining at least one aperture through which extends at least one fastener to mechanically secure the subshell to the frame by engaging the frame;
• a ventilated padding corresponding in shape to the at least one subshell;
• wherein the subshell defines a plurality of elongate slots arranged at predetermined locations, the slots corresponding to the ventilated padding to allow a passage of air through both the subshell and the padding, the first end of the at least one strap looped about a first one of the plurality of elongate slots for connecting the first end thereof with the subshell.