Relationship between trunk function evaluated using the trunk righting test and physical function in patients with...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Knee osteoarthritis (OA) significantly impacts patients' physical function and quality of life.
• Trunk function is crucial for overall motor control but often overlooked in OA management.
• The trunk righting test (TRT) is a potential tool to assess trunk function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate the importance of trunk function, measured by the TRT, in relation to motor function in knee OA patients.
• To explore the clinical utility of the TRT for assessing physical function in this population.

Main Methods:

• This study involved 50 patients with knee OA who had undergone total knee arthroplasty.
• Correlations were statistically analyzed between various physical functional tests (muscle strength, balance, performance) and TRT outcomes.
• Specific tests included maximal isometric knee extensor strength, ipsilateral step test, and Timed Up and Go (TUG) test.

Main Results:

• Maximal isometric knee extensor strength and the ipsilateral step test were identified as independent factors for ipsilateral TRT.
• Both operator and non-operator side TRT showed significant associations with the TUG test.
• These findings indicate a link between lower extremity strength/performance and trunk control.

Conclusions:

• Physical functions in knee OA patients are correlated with trunk function as evaluated by the TRT.
• Healthcare providers should consider both trunk and lower extremity function to optimize physical rehabilitation outcomes in knee OA.
• The TRT demonstrates potential clinical value in assessing and guiding the management of physical function in knee OA.