Alpine Skiing With total knee ArthroPlasty (ASWAP): effect on tendon properties

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can alter patellar tendon properties.
• Understanding tendon adaptation post-TKA is crucial for rehabilitation.
• The impact of recreational activities on TKA patient tendons requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of alpine skiing on patellar tendon properties in TKA patients.
• To assess changes in tendon stiffness, Young's modulus, and cross-sectional area (CSA) after a skiing intervention.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-one adult TKA patients were divided into an intervention group (IG) and a control group (CG).
• The IG participated in a 12-week guided alpine skiing program.
• Patellar tendon properties (stiffness, Young's modulus, CSA) were measured pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• Baseline: Operated (OP) leg tendons were 28% larger in CSA than non-operated (NOP) legs.
• Post-intervention (IG): Tendon stiffness increased by 5.8% (OP) and 15.8% (NOP).
• Post-intervention (IG): Mean CSA increased by 2.9% (OP) and 3.8% (NOP); no changes in CG.

Conclusions:

• Patellar tendon structure is altered after TKA, but the tissue retains adaptive capacity.
• Alpine skiing demonstrates potential as an effective rehabilitation strategy for TKA patients.
• Further research can explore long-term effects and optimal skiing protocols for TKA rehabilitation.