Physical impairment and functional limitations: A comparison of individuals 1 year after total knee arthroplasty with control subjects

Abstract

Background and Purpose. The purpose of this study was to examine the physical impairement ad functional limitation of individuals with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) as compared with individuals with no diagnosis knee disease (control subjects). Subjects 29 individuals one year following TKA (13 women 16 men)and 40 age- and gender-matched control subjects (18 women, 22 men) were assessed. Methods. Walking speed, stair-climbing ability, knee torque (in newtonmeters) and total worked performed during 15 repeated contractions were evaluated. Results. Walking speed for men with TKA were 13% and 17% slower at normal and fast speeds, respectively. Their stair-climbing activity was even more compromised (51% slower). Walking speed for women with TKA were 17 and 18 % slower at normal and fast speed, respectively. Similarly, their stair climbing time was more compromised (43%). Men with TKA were 37% to 39% weaker and performed 36% to 37% less total work of their knee extensor compared with the control subjects. Similarly, women with TKA had knee extensor strength deficits of 28% to 29% and performed 24% less total worked. Conclusion and Descisions. One year after TKA marked physical impairments and functional limitations persisted.