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Intra-articular knee joint effusion induces quadriceps avoidance gait patterns
M R Torry1, M J Decker, R W Viola
1Steadman-Hawkins Sports Medicine Foundations, Vail, CO 81657, USA. mike.torry@shsmf.org
Clinical Biomechanics (Bristol, Avon)
|February 5, 2000
Summary
Knee joint effusion alters walking by increasing hip and knee flexion and reducing quadriceps activity. This suggests joint swelling may cause quadriceps avoidance gait patterns seen in knee injuries.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Gait adaptations are common in individuals with knee injuries.
- Knee joint capsular afferent activity influences knee function.
- Intra-articular knee joint effusion can alter joint mechanics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify gait adaptations during walking caused by intra-articular knee joint effusion.
- To determine if knee effusion contributes to quadriceps avoidance gait patterns.
Main Methods:
- Gait analysis in 14 healthy individuals with induced knee joint effusion via saline injections.
- Repeated measures design (pre- and post-injection) to assess lower extremity kinematics, kinetics, energetics, and thigh EMG.
- Incremental increases in effusion levels to observe dose-dependent effects.
Main Results:
- Increased hip and knee flexion during the stance phase of walking.
- Diminished knee extensor torque, impulse, and work with increasing effusion.
- Decreased quadriceps and increased hamstring muscle activity.
Conclusions:
- Knee joint effusion and capsular distention significantly alter normal gait.
- These findings suggest knee effusion may be a primary cause of quadriceps avoidance gait patterns observed in knee-injured populations.
- The study provides baseline data for comparing gait in individuals with knee injuries or undergoing rehabilitation.