Method for controlling an orthopedic joint

The invention relates to a method for controlling an orthopedic joint of a lower extremity in at least one degree of freedom by an adjustable actuator for adjusting an orthopedic apparatus to walking situations that differ from walking on a plane. The orthopedic apparatus includes a top connector connected to a limb and an orthopedic element that is arranged in a hinged manner distal to the top connector. The method encompasses the following steps: -several parameters (A) of the orthopedic apparatus are sensed by sensors; -the sensed parameters are compared with criteria (K) that have been established based on several parameters and/or parameter curves and are stored in a computer unit; -a criterion is selected that is suitable on the basis of the determined parameters and/or parameter curves; and -resistances to movements, extents of movements, driving forces, and/or the progresses thereof are adjusted in accordance with the selected criterion in order to control special functions (5) that differ from walking on a plane.