Trunk control, motion and alignment after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Trunk control improves mobility, balance and quality of life early after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and is therefore considered an important parameter during the recovery process. However, little is known about trunk control, motion and alignment after TKA. Increasing our understanding aids in optimizing treatment strategies to enhance functional mobility after TKA.

Does trunk control, motion and alignment return to normal after TKA and is this related to functional mobility?

Five scientific databases were searched until July 2021. Eligibility criteria consisted of outcomes assessing trunk control and alignment in a population of adults undergoing TKA. Two reviewers independently screened studies and risk of bias was assessed by Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Meta-analysis was performed for subgroups gait and alignment.

Of the 362 studies retrieved, 24 were included. Study designs were cohorts with mixed methods (pre-post treatment, case-control and case-case) and three randomized controlled trials. The mean MMAT score was 75%, corresponding to low bias. In total 1178 patients and 197 controls were included. Results showed that pre-operative trunk motion was characterized by increased amplitudes in all three planes and altered alignment which did not all return to normal after TKA. Frontal plane motion and alignment recovered faster than the sagittal and transversal plane. Although pelvic tilt improved after surgery, sagittal imbalance (anteriorly shifted trunk position) was still present.

Recovery of trunk motion after TKA is time-, speed- and technique-dependent. The observed differences in trunk motion with the healthy controls persisted after TKA. This indicates that incorporating a full biomechanical chain approach, including trunk motion and gait-retraining exercises with a strong focus on postural alignment could improve functional mobility after TKA. Limited studies are available assessing trunk control and trunk motion during functional tasks besides walking which warrant further investigation.