Gait pattern after meniscectomy

Abstract

Quantitative gait analysis (QGA) has improved our knowledge on pathologic gait patterns which can be helpful in determining the aetiology of knee problems as well as clinical decision making. The use of gait analysis as a prophesy of forthcoming knee problems after meniscectomy continues to gain popularity. The increasing body of knowledge and experience regarding arthroscopic treatment of meniscus and cruciate pathologies suggests that good results can be expected for a group of patients. However, there is a paucity of the literature on the natural course of knee OA caused by internal knee pathologies. Short-term gait alterations after meniscectomy may be related to pain, changes in perceptual sensation and compromised muscular strength. In the long term, malalignment, cartilage degeneration and compensatory mechanisms may be responsible from the resultant gait pattern.