Study of the differences in the gait parameters of healthy and diseased limbs in patients with knee osteoarthritis

Abstract

Knee osteoarthritis is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a degenerative disease that occurs when the protective cartilage in the knee joint wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee. The actuality of knee osteoarthritis lies in its high prevalence, significant healthcare costs, and impact on quality of life. The article presents the results of the study of the difference in gait parameters of healthy and diseased limbs in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Twenty patients were examined. The diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis was established according to the criteria of the American College of Rheumatology. Gait parameters were studied using the GAITRite® system. The following parameters were studied: Temporal Definitions (Step Time, Gait Cycle Time, Single Support, Initial Double Support, Stance); Spatial Parameters and Definitions (Step Length, Stride Length, H-H Base of Support, Toe In / Toe Out). Among the investigated indicators, two demonstrated reliable differences between healthy and diseased limbs. It was found that Step Time for diseased limb was statistically significantly greater than for the opposite limb. At the same time, the foot support time of the healthy limb and, accordingly, the Initial Double Support indicator statistically significantly exceeded the similar indicators for the diseased limb. Summarizing the results of еру study, it can be stated that patients with knee osteoarthritis have a gait disorder in the form of asymmetric steps. Thus, the time of support on the foot decreases, and accordingly, the time of transferring the foot of the diseased limb increases. Changes in the diseased limb are also reflected in the opposite, healthy limb. An effort to increase the speed of movement during the examination causes an increase in movement on a relatively healthy limb in the form of an increase in the length of the step and a reduction in the time of transfer of the foot of the diseased limb. Keywords: knee joint; osteoarthritis; gait parameters; GAITRite.