Article

Based on novel classification criteria using magnetic resonance
imaging, a subpopulation of "early knee osteoarthritis patients" was clearly
defined recently. This study assessed whether these early osteoarthritis patients
already exhibit gait adaptations (knee joint loading in particular) and changes
in muscle strength compared to control subjects and established knee osteoarthritis patients. METHODS: Fourteen female patients with early knee joint
degeneration, defined by magnetic resonance imaging (early osteoarthritis), 12
female patients with established osteoarthritis and 14 female control subjects
participated. Specific gait parameters and lower limb muscle strength were
analyzed and compared between groups. Within the osteoarthritis groups,
association between muscle strength and dynamic knee joint loading was also
evaluated. FINDINGS: Early osteoarthritis patients presented no altered gait
pattern, no significant increase in knee joint loading and no significant
decrease in hamstring muscle strength compared to controls, while established
osteoarthritis patients did. In contrast, early osteoarthritis patients
experienced significant quadriceps weakness, comparable to established
osteoarthritis patients. Within the osteoarthritis groups, muscle strength was
not correlated with knee joint loading during gait. INTERPRETATION: The results
suggest that gait changes reflect mechanical overload and are most likely the
consequence of structural degeneration in knee osteoarthritis. Quadriceps
weakness might however contribute to the onset and progression of the disease.
This study supports the relevance of classification of early osteoarthritis
patients and assists in identifying their functional characteristics. This helps
to understand the trajectory of disease onset and progression and further develop
more targeted strategies for prevention and treatment of knee osteoarthritis.
CI - Copyright (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS