Performance of subjects with knee osteoarthritis during walking: differential parameters

The effect of knee OA on kinetic and kinematic parameters during walking and standing is still controversial. Stability and energy consumption have not been well investigated in patients with OA. This research investigated the parameters distinguishing between the healthy subjects and patients with OA performance. It also examined the differences in stability and energy consumption between patients with OA and healthy subjects. Fifteen patients with OA and fifteen healthy subjects were recruited into this study. Kinematic and kinetic assessments were performed using Qualysis motion analysis and a force plate Kistler, respectively. Stability of the subjects during walking was determined using COP. Energy consumption was calculated using the Physiological Index. Independent t test was used to determine the differences between gait, stability, and energy consumption healthy participants and patients with knee OA. The excursion of the knee, hip and pelvis in sagittal plane, excursion of the knee joint in the mediolateral plane were significantly higher (all p < 0.05) in patients with OA of the knee compared with their healthy counterparts. In addition, energy consumption was significantly higher in patients with OA (p = 0.009) than in healthy participants. However, margin of stability was significantly lower (p = 0.05) in patients with OA of the knee than in healthy subjects. These findings suggest that gait parameters and energy consumption assessments may be important in patients with OA of the knee. Therefore, clinicians are to be aware of these findings by developing appropriate gait rehabilitation for patients with OA of the knee.

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