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Proprioceptive function in knees with and without total knee arthroplasty
S Fuchs1, L Thorwesten, S Niewerth
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The University of Münster, Germany.
American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
|January 29, 1999
Summary
Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) impairs proprioception, affecting both operated and contralateral legs. This reduced joint position sense may explain postoperative issues, especially at 60 degrees.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomechanics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Proprioception, or joint position sense, is crucial for knee function.
- Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) aims to restore knee function but may impact proprioceptive abilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare angle reproduction capability after posterior cruciate ligament-retaining TKA with healthy controls and the contralateral leg.
- To assess the influence of visual control on proprioception after TKA.
Main Methods:
- 28 TKA patients and 25 healthy controls performed angle reproduction tasks (0-90 degrees).
- Measurements were taken with and without visual control.
- Angle reproduction accuracy was compared between groups and conditions.
Main Results:
- TKA patients showed significantly reduced angle reproduction accuracy compared to healthy subjects.
- No significant difference was found between operated and contralateral knees in TKA patients.
- Reduced proprioception was noted, particularly at the 60-degree angle, irrespective of visual control.
Conclusions:
- Knee arthroplasty leads to reduced proprioceptive capabilities in both operated and contralateral limbs.
- Loss of proprioception may contribute to postoperative complaints, especially at 60 degrees.
- Surgical techniques and rehabilitation should prioritize preserving ligamentous structures and receptors to optimize outcomes.