Knee osteoarthritis (OA) with pain, stiffness and functional limitations is associated with risk of falls. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an effective treatment for OA knee and affords significant improvements in pain, function and proprioception. Many studies have shown proprioceptive/balance deficits and decreases in knee extension strength following TKA, which could increase risk of falls.
To identify the prevalence rate andfall-risk in Thai TKA patients.
A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with TKA diagnosed with primary OA who living in the community.
There were 54 patients (46 females, 8 males). Mean time between surgery and interview was 38.9 ± 16.6 (7-73) months. The one-year prevalence of falls among patients was 42.6% (23/54 patients): total frequency was 34 times (1-4 times/case). Three fallers needed treatment: one by open reduction and internal fixation with plate and screws of periprosthetic fracture of the femur, and the others needed hospitalization due to hemathrosis of non-TKA knees. The WOMAC pain and stiffness scores were significantly higher in the faller group than the non-faller group. Limitation of joint motion was the main fall-risk factor (OR 6.3; 95% CI 1-67.2, p < 0.05).
The prevalence rate offalls for this group of TKA patients was about 42%. Limited motion and pain of the knee joint were associated with falls in this study group.