How proprioception changes before and after total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Science
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Proprioception is vital for balance, joint stability, movement, coordination, and injury prevention.
• It relies on complex neurophysiological processes involving receptors in muscles, joints, and tendons.
• Measuring knee proprioception, especially in osteoarthritis and post-total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients, is challenging due to its complexity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and analyze proprioception in the knee joint before and after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
• To evaluate changes in proprioceptive skills in patients with osteoarthritis undergoing knee replacement surgery.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across four databases (Web of Science®, PubMed Central®, Cochrane®, PEDro®) from January 2008 to February 2018.
• 170 articles were screened using strict exclusion criteria and selection strategies.
• 13 papers were included, categorized into those directly or indirectly measuring proprioception.

Main Results:

• Analysis revealed contrasting results regarding knee proprioception changes after TKA.
• No clear consensus was found in the literature on whether proprioception improves or declines post-surgery.
• Significant variability exists in methodologies, protocols, and parameters used for evaluation.

Conclusions:

• The current variability in assessing knee proprioception hinders reliable conclusions about TKA's effects.
• Further research with consistent datasets, defined protocols, and measurable outcomes is essential.
• Standardized follow-up and rehabilitation programs are needed to understand TKA's impact on proprioception and balance.