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Published on: December 11, 2013
Multi-joint postural behavior in patients with knee osteoarthritis
Katia Turcot1, Yoshimasa Sagawa2, Pierre Hoffmeyer3
1Willy Taillard Laboratory of Kinesiology, Geneva University Hospitals and Geneva University, Geneva, Switzerland; Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (CIRRIS), Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.
Patients with severe knee osteoarthritis (OA) exhibit altered multi-joint postural strategies, including asymmetric weight distribution and a more flexed posture during quiet standing, impacting their balance.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
- Gerontology
Background:
- Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is linked to balance impairment.
- Postural control relies on multi-joint coordination.
- Previous research has not examined multi-joint postural strategies in knee OA patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate multi-joint postural behavior in knee OA patients.
- Assess the association between postural strategies and clinical outcomes in knee OA.
Main Methods:
- Recruited 87 knee OA patients and 25 healthy elderly controls.
- Utilized motion analysis and force plates for joint kinematics and ground reaction forces during quiet standing.
- Collected data on pain, functional capacity, and quality of life.
Main Results:
- Knee OA patients displayed a more flexed posture across multiple joints compared to controls.
- Significant asymmetric weight distribution (vertical ground reaction force ratio) was observed in knee OA patients.
- Reduced center of pressure (COP) range in the anterior-posterior direction was noted in knee OA patients.
Conclusions:
- Severe knee OA patients adopt a distinct multi-joint asymmetric posture during quiet standing.
- These findings offer new insights into the postural adaptations in knee OA.
