Do they feel better when they walk better? 3D gait analysis study in total knee arthroplasty for Indian osteoarthritic knees

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of disability in the elderly population. Gait analysis is a widely used tool to measure functional outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study aimed to assess the gait pattern and influence of TKA in patients with osteoarthritic knees. Materials and Methods: Preoperative and postoperative gait analysis was carried out on patients with grade 4 OA knee undergoing TKA. Sequential 33 adults (45 knees) with a mean age of 68.4 ± 5.8 years were studied. Gait analysis was carried out in Jupiter gait lab with 9 Qualisys Oqus cameras system and Qualisys track manager. Kinematic data were processed using Visual 3D C-Motion Software during a minimum of 6 walks across the walkway. Results: A significant difference in temporospatial parameters (gait speed, Cadence, step time, step length, stride width, stride length), joint kinematics in the sagittal plane (pelvis, hip, knee, ankle), coronal plane (pelvis, hip, knee, ankle), transverse plane (hip, knee) and motion analysis profile of knee (flexion/extension), ankle (dorsiflexion/plantarflexion), and hip (adduction/abduction). A significant difference was observed in the oxford knee score (OKS), Short Form 12, and knee society score. Conclusion: 3D gait analysis is a good tool to document and compare gait changes in patients undergoing TKA. Recent advances in surgical techniques and improvements in prosthesis design are important factors for better functional outcomes. Our results may be used by clinicians, physiotherapists, or researchers as a reference for integrated aspects for the development of TKA implant designs and improving functional outcomes.