Dynamic balance and fall risk in elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis before and after Total Knee Arthroplasty

Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is a common treatment for severe osteoarthritis (OA). High risks of falling and balance disorder are within the main complications of this method. While multiple studies have been done about OA patients after TKA, efficacy of TKA aimed at improving balance and decrease fall rates has not been thoroughly investigated. Materials & Methods. In this study, twenty patients with severe OA, sampled by non-randomized convenient method were randomly assigned into our study group. After TKA patients attended a routine rehabilitation program. Dynamic balance were assessed by the Star Excursion (SEBT) and Berg tests, prior to surgery and after the rehabilitation process. Results The balance scores were significantly enhanced after the TKA (p<0.001). Conclusion Patients with Osteoarthritis have less fall risk and dynamic balance impairments after Total Knee Arthroplasty.