Lower limbs function and pain relationships after unilateral total knee arthroplasty

The aim of the study was to evaluate gait characteristics, lower limbs joint function, and pain relationships associated with knee osteoarthritis of female patients before and 3 months after total knee arthroplasty at an outpatient clinic rehabilitation department. Gait parameters were registered, the active range of lower extremity joints was measured, and pain was evaluated. Gait characteristics, walking velocity, and knee joint's extension improved and pain diminished considerably 3 months after arthroplasty, nevertheless did not reach control group level. In conclusion, single support phase and gait velocity change reflect the recovery of gait function after total knee arthroplasty. Beside the affected knee joint's range of motion, attention should be paid to the restoration of the functional reserve of the adjacent joints and joints of contralateral lower extremity after total knee arthroplasty. Affected knee joint pain perceived during level walking influenced the gait velocity of patients before total knee arthroplasty but not 3 months after arthroplasty. International Journal of Rehabilitation Research 33:264-267 (C) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health vertical bar Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.