Changes in Mediolateral Postural Control Mechanisms During Gait After Total Knee Arthroplasty

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can lead to decreased postural stability due to musculoskeletal changes and proprioception loss.
• Assessing dynamic postural control is crucial for understanding post-TKA functional recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate dynamic postural control improvements in TKA patients during walking compared to pre-surgery.
• To compare postural control between TKA patients and healthy controls.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 23 TKA patients and 10 healthy controls.
• Gait analysis using Vicon cameras and force platforms to collect marker and center of pressure (COP) data.
• Data collected at 3, 6, and 12 months post-TKA.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in double stance ratio by 6 months post-TKA.
• Faster mediolateral COP velocity and decreased double stance ratio at 12 months post-TKA.
• TKA patients exhibited greater COP parameter variability during gait compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Dynamic postural control improves with time after TKA.
• Persistent gait variability in TKA patients suggests limitations compared to healthy individuals.
• Proprioceptive balance therapy could further enhance post-TKA dynamic postural control.