Baropodometry on patients after total knee arthroplasty

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Total knee replacement (TKA) is known to reduce pain and enhance function.
• The impact of TKA on postural assessment requires further investigation using advanced technology.
• TKA influences knee stability and motor coordination, potentially altering body balance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze static and dynamic baropodometric data in patients during the initial months post-TKA.
• To provide physiatrists with a tool for evaluating the efficacy and timing of rehabilitation protocols.
• To assess changes in postural stability and weight distribution after knee surgery.

Main Methods:

• Prospective observational longitudinal study design.
• Recruitment of sixty patients undergoing TKA, monitored pre-surgery and at 1, 3, and 6 months post-surgery.
• Utilized static and dynamic baropodometric analysis, alongside X-ray assessment of knee alignment and Knee Society Score for functional recovery.

Main Results:

• Significant improvement in knee alignment, Knee Society Score, and Function Score post-TKA.
• Baropodometry revealed correction of center of gravity and foot pressure towards physiological norms.
• Dynamic analysis confirmed normalization of foot pressure, increased gait speed, cadence, and step length, with reduced load on the operated limb.

Conclusions:

• Post-TKA, patients exhibit progressive recovery of stability in the months following surgery.
• Clinical and functional improvements correlate with altered load distribution between lower limbs.
• Baropodometry serves as an effective, non-invasive method for monitoring TKA rehabilitation outcomes.