Knee replacements are becoming standard treatment for osteoarthritis. More and more people are having both knees replaced. In this study researchers compare the way patients walked before and after having both knees replaced.

All patients were women who had both knees replaced. The second knee was done within three weeks of the first. Their walking patterns were analyzed before and after the operations. Results were compared with 12 women who had normal knees and a normal gait pattern.

A computerized gait analysis system was used to measure cadence (steps per minute), step length, and stride length. Special sensors in the walkway signaled the amount of force between the foot and the floor. This is called ground reaction force.

The authors report improved cadence and step length from before to after surgery. Results didn't equal the control group who had a faster cadence and longer step length. Total range of motion in the knee stayed the same from before to after joint replacement.

The authors conclude that gait analysis isn't possible for the average patient. Even so studies like this can offer helpful information about changes in patients before and after having both knees replaced.

Reference:

A.Sükrü Solak, MD, et al. Does Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty Affect Gait in Women? In The Journal of Arthroplasty. September 2005. Vol. 20. No. 6. Pp. 745-750.'