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introduction: there is lack of understanding of the relationship between knee adduction moment (KaM) reductions and improvements in pain or function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (Koa). Moreover, there is no systematic review describing the longitudinal relationship between KaM changes and subsequent changes in pain and/or physical function. We aimed to: 1) investigate the relationship between changes in KaM induced by non-surgical biomechanical interventions and consecutive changes in pain and/or physical function in patients with medial Koa and; 2) compare this relationship for different interventions. EVidEncE acQuisition: We considered eligible all rcts using biomechanical interventions aimed to reduce KaM in Koa patients, that measured pain/function. We used cohen’s d effect size to quantify outcome measurements. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: Fourteen papers reporting 11 studies were identified. Braces were tested in 6 studies, insoles in 5 studies, shoes in 3 studies and gait retraining in 2 studies. Methodological differences were large among studies. Large effect sizes (≥0.8) changes in pain/function were observed with interventions having at least a small KAM effect size (≥0.2), suggesting an association between KAM and pain/function changes. A linear trend was observed between inter-intervention KAM and VAS pain effect sizes, based on 4 studies. No firm conclusions could be drawn for the different intervention types. conclusions: there was a trend toward larger KaM reductions leading to larger improvements in pain/function in non-surgical biomechanical interventions. additional high-quality rct with consistent methodology are needed to fully characterize the association between KaM and pain/function changes.

To investigate effects of foot progression angle (FPA) modification on the first and second peaks of external knee adduction moment (EKAM) and knee adduction angular impulse (KAAI) in individuals with and without medial knee osteoarthritis (OA) during level walking.PubMed, Embase, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus were searched from inception to February 2020 by 2 independent reviewers. Included studies compared FPA modification (toe-in or toe-out gait) interventions to lower EKAM and/or KAAI with natural walking. Studies were required to report the first or second peaks of EKAM or KAAI.Sixteen studies were included, and85% of included patients were graded with Kellgren/Lawrence grade II-IV knee OA. Toe-in gait reduced the first EKAM peak (standardized mean difference [SMD] -0.75 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) -1.05, -0.45]) and KAAI (SMD -0.46 [95% CI -0.86, -0.07]), while toe-out gait reduced the second EKAM peak (SMD -1.04 [95% CI -1.34, -0.75]) in healthy individuals. For patients with knee OA, toe-out gait reduced the second EKAM peak (SMD -0.53 [95% CI -0.75, -0.31]) and KAAI (SMD -0.26 [95% CI -0.49, -0.03]), while toe-in gait did not affect both EKAM peaks and KAAI.Discrepancy in biomechanical effects of FPA modification was demonstrated between individuals with and without medial knee OA. Compared with natural walking, both toe-in and toe-out gait may be more effective in lowering EKAM and KAAI in healthy individuals. Toe-out gait may reduce EKAM and KAAI in patients with mild-to-severe knee OA. There is insufficient data from patients with early-stage knee OA, indicating that future research is required.

Objective: The relationship between in vivo knee load predictions and longitudinal cartilage changes has not been investigated. We undertook this study to develop an equation to predict the medial tibiofemoral contact force (MCF) peak during walking in persons with instrumented knee implants, and to apply this equation to determine the relationship between the predicted MCF peak and cartilage loss in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: In adults with knee OA (39 women, 8 men; mean ± SD age 61.1 ± 6.8 years), baseline biomechanical gait analyses were performed, and annualized change in medial tibial cartilage volume (mm3 /year) over 2.5 years was determined using magnetic resonance imaging. In a separate sample of patients with force-measuring tibial prostheses (3 women, 6 men; mean ± SD age 70.3 ± 5.2 years), gait data plus in vivo knee loads were used to develop an equation to predict the MCF peak using machine learning. This equation was then applied to the knee OA group, and the relationship between the predicted MCF peak and annualized cartilage volume change was determined. Results: The MCF peak was best predicted using gait speed, the knee adduction moment peak, and the vertical knee reaction force peak (root mean square error 132.88N; R2 = 0.81, P < 0.001). In participants with knee OA, the predicted MCF peak was related to cartilage volume change (R2 = 0.35, β = -0.119, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Machine learning was used to develop a novel equation for predicting the MCF peak from external biomechanical parameters. The predicted MCF peak was positively related to medial tibial cartilage volume loss in patients with knee OA.

PurposeThis study aimed to investigate the rate at which patients returned to sports after open wedge high tibial osteotomy and identify the continuity of sports activity post-operatively.MethodsThirty-five patients (40 knees) who underwent open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OW-HTO) in medial knee osteoarthritis were included in this study. The mean age of the patients who underwent surgery was 55.1 ± 10.7 years, and the mean follow-up period was 41.0 ± 24.7 months. Clinical results and radiographic parameters calculated in standing whole-leg radiographs preoperatively, post-operatively, and at the final follow-up were evaluated.ResultsThirty-one patients (88.6%) were able to return to preoperative sports activity; however, only 14 patients (40.0%) completely returned to preoperative sports activity levels. Of the 31 patients who returned to sports activity, 10 patients (32.3%) maintained post-operative sporting activity levels at the final follow-up. In radiographic parameters, the weight-bearing line ratio was considered loss of correction in the post-operative period leading to the final follow-up. Patients who completely returned to sports and maintained sporting activity levels at the final follow-up had significantly higher the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score pain subscale values and lower visual analogue scale of knee pain at pre-surgery and final follow-up than other patients, including those who partially returned to sports.ConclusionsThe proportion of patients who returned to sports after OW-HTO and were able to participate in competitions at the same activity level as before surgery was low and insufficient.Level of evidenceRetrospective case series, IV

Summary We report a case of painful snapping pes anserinus. A 21-year-old man presented with medial knee pain. After arthroscopy for medial partial meniscectomy the pain persisted. After failed conservative treatment with physical therapy surgery was performed. The pes anserinus was released, but the pain persisted. After a revision surgery with further release of the pes the symptoms disappeared.

Summary Objective This pragmatic, multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to compare the effectiveness, safety, and cost–utility of a custom-made knee brace versus usual care over 1 year in medial knee osteoarthritis (OA). Design 120 patients with medial knee OA (VAS pain at rest >40/100), classified as Kellgren–Lawrence grade II-IV, were randomized into two groups: ODRA plus usual care (ODRA group) and usual care alone (UCA group). The primary effectiveness outcome was the change in VAS pain between M0 and M12. Secondary outcomes included changes over 1 year in KOOS (function) and OAKHQOL (quality of life) scores. Drug consumption, compliance, safety of the knee brace, and cost–utility over 1 year were also assessed. Results The ODRA group was associated with a higher improvement in: VAS pain (adjusted mean difference of −11.8; 95% CI: −21.1 to −2.5); all KOOS subscales (pain: +8.8; 95% CI: 1.4–16.2); other symptoms (+10.4; 95% CI: 2.7–18); function in activities of daily living (+9.2; 95% CI: 1.1–17.2); function in sports and leisure (+12.3; 95% CI: 4.3–20.3); quality of life (+9.9; 95% CI: 0.9–15.9), OAKHQOL subscales (pain: +14.8; 95% CI: 5.0–24.6); and physical activities (+8.2; 95% CI: 0.6–15.8), and with a significant decrease in analgesics consumption at M12 compared with the UCA group. Despite localized side-effects, observance was good at M12 (median: 5.3 h/day). The ODRA group had a more than 85% chance of being cost-effective for a willingness-to-pay threshold of €45 000 per QALY. Conclusions The ERGONOMIE RCT demonstrated significant clinical benefits of an unloader custom-made knee brace in terms of improvements in pain, function, and some aspects of quality of life over 1 year in medial knee OA, as well as its potential cost–utility from a societal perspective.

Background. Among the methods of surgical treatment of early stages medial knee osteoarthritis in the partial knee replacement (PKR) becomes more and more relevant. The relevance and increasing number of PKR are confirmed by data from various national registers. The aim of the study was to research the early functional results of PKR and to analyze the complications at various stages of the postoperative period. Material and Methods. Study design: a single-center prospective study. The results of 90 operations of PKR in the period from March 2018 to April 2020 are presented. Assessment of knee function and quality of life of patients was performed according to three scalesquestionnaires: KOOS, WOMAC, SF-36, which were filled in preoperatively and then at 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 months. after surgery. Patients within the reporting period provided X-rays and filled in the scales at the face-to-face examination and at remote contact. Results. The most significant improvement of quality of life and median values of the functional results observed after 3 months, and after 18 months. After replacement the best median functional outcome scales KOOS, WOMAC, SF-36 — 79,4 (73,6–84,3); 27,1 (24,8–30,6); 89,1 (85,3–92,6) compared with the functional results obtained before surgery 32,3 (22,8–38,4); 73,6 (63,6–78,8); 35,2 (31,3–42,1); p = 0,027; p = 0.023; p = 0,028, respectively. A negative correlation was obtained between BMI and functional outcome (p = 0.027, R = -0.7). Conclusion. PKR allowed us to achieve an improvement in the quality of life and functional results already in the early postoperative period (from 3 to 18 months after the operation). The improvement of the operating technique, the analysis of errors and the regularity of the performed PKR will improve the results of PKR and minimize the number of complications.

Snapping of knee could be due to plethora of causes. We describe a case of snapping of Sartorius over a medial knee ganglion that was treated successfully by ultrasound guided aspiration with complete resolution of symptoms. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40477-021-00580-0.

Objective:To compare biomechanical and clinical outcome of laterally wedged insoles (LWI) and an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis.Design:Single-centre, block-randomized, cross-over controlled trial.Setting:Outpatient clinic.Subjects:About 39 patients with symptomatic medial knee osteoarthritis.Interventions:Patients started with either LWI or AFO, determined randomly, and six weeks later changed to the alternative.Main measures:Change in the 1st maximum of external knee adduction moment (eKAM) was assessed with gait analysis. Additional outcomes were other kinetic and kinematic changes and the patient-reported outcomes EQ-5D-5L, Oxford Knee Score (OKS), American Knee Society Clinical Rating System (AKSS), Hannover Functional Ability Questionnaire – Osteoarthritis and knee pain.Results:Mean age (SD) of the study population was 58 (8) years, mean BMI 30 (5). Both aids significantly improved OKS (LWI P = 0.003, AFO P = 0.001), AKSS Knee Score (LWI P = 0.01, AFO P = 0.004) and EQ-5D-5L Index (LWI P = 0.001, AFO P = 0.002). AFO reduced the 1st maximum of eKAM by 18% ( P Conclusions:AFO reduces medial knee load more than LWI. Nevertheless, no clinical superiority of either of the two aids could be shown.

Background: Lateral wedge insoles adjusted by biomechanical analysis may improve the condition of patients with medial knee osteoarthritis. Design: This is a prospective, randomized, controlled, single-blind clinical trial. Setting: The study was conducted in a biomechanics laboratory. Subjects: A total of 38 patients with medial knee osteoarthritis were allocated to either an experimental group (lateral wedge insoles) or a control group (neutral insoles). Interventions: Experimental group ( n = 20) received an adjusted lateral wedge insole of 2, 4, 6, 8, or 10 degrees, after previous biomechanical analysis. Control group ( n = 18) received a neutral insole (0 degrees). All patients used the insoles for 12 weeks. Main measures: Visual analogue scale, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score questionnaire, biomechanical parameters: first and second peak of the external knee adduction moment and knee adduction angular impulse, and physical performance tests: 30-second sit-to-stand test, the 40-m fast-paced walk test, and the 12-step stair-climb test. Results: After 12 weeks, between-group differences did not differ significantly for pain intensity (−12.5 mm, (95% CI −29.4–4.4)), biomechanical parameters ( p = 0.05), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and physical performance tests, except on the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score subscale other symptoms ( p = 0.002; 13.8 points, (95% CI 5.6–22.0)). Conclusion: Tailored wedge insoles were no more effective at improving biomechanical or clinically meaningful outcomes than neutral insoles, except on symptoms. More participants from the experimental group reported they felt some improvement. However, these effects were minimal and without clinical significance.

© 2021, European Society of Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery, Arthroscopy (ESSKA). Purpose: Chronic grade 3 tears of the medial collateral ligament and posterior oblique ligament may result in valgus laxity and anteromedial rotational instability after an isolated or multiligament injury. The purpose of this study was to prospectively analyze the restoration of physiologic medial laxity as assessed on stress radiography and patient reported subjective functional outcomes in patients who undergo an anatomic medial knee reconstruction. Methods: This was a prospective study which included patients with chronic (> 6 weeks old) posteromedial corner injury with or without other ligament and meniscus lesions. Pre- and post-operative valgus stress radiographs were performed in 20° knee flexion and functional outcome was recorded as per the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Lysholm scores. All patients underwent anatomic medial reconstruction with two femoral and two tibial sockets using ipsilateral hamstring tendon autograft. Simultaneous ligament and meniscus surgery was performed as per the associated injury pattern. All patients were followed up for a minimum of 24 months post-surgery. Results: Thirty-four patients (23 males, 11 females) were enrolled in the study and all were available till final follow-up of mean 49.7 ± 14.9 months. The mean age was 30.6 ± 7.9 (18–52 years). Two patients had isolated medial sided lesions and 23 had associated ligament injuries. The mean follow up was 49.7 (24–72) months. The mean IKDC score improved from 58 ± 8.3 to 78.2 ± 9.5 (p < 0.001). Post-operatively there were 15 excellent, 11 good and 8 fair outcomes on Lysholm score. The mean pre-operative valgus side-to-side opening improved from 7.5 ± 2.5 mm to 1.2 ± 0.7 mm on stress radiography (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Anatomic reconstruction of the superficial medial collateral and posterior oblique ligaments restore stability in a consistent manner cases of chronic grade 3 instability. The objective functional results, subjective outcomes and measures of static medial stability are satisfactory in the short term. Level of Evidence: IV

Objective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of preoperative planning of the femurofibular angle (FFA) in medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) for mild medial knee osteoarthritis. Methods. Thirty-two patients (32 knees) with mild medial knee OA were retrospectively reviewed. The patients underwent preoperative planning of the FFA for OWHTO. For preoperative planning, a full-length weight-bearing X-ray photograph of the lower limb was opened within Adobe Photoshop Software, and a targeted corrective mechanical axis line of the lower limb and its intersecting point at the lateral tibial plateau surface was drawn using rectangle selection and filling tools. A frame, which encircled the tibia and fibula, was created around the predicted osteotomy plane and then rotated until the ankle center was on the targeted mechanical axis line. Subsequently, a distal femoral condyle line and a proximal fibula axis line were drawn, and the angle between the two lines was measured and defined as the femurofibular angle (FFA). During biplane OWHTO, the preoperatively determined FFA was used to complete the correction of the mechanical axis. During follow-up, the postoperative mechanical weight-bearing line (WBL) of the lower limb, the mechanical femorotibial angle (mFTA), and the FFA were measured and compared with the preoperatively determined values. Results. The mechanical WBL shifted from a preoperative value of 25.36 ± 5.02 % to a postoperative value of 56.19 ± 0.10 % from the medial border along the mediolateral width of the tibial plateau, and it was 56.57 ± 0.08 % at the final follow-up ( P < 0.01 ). The preoperatively determined value was 56.25%, and no significant difference was found compared with postoperative week-one and final follow-up values ( P > 0.05 ). The mFTA was corrected from a preoperative varus of 4.02 ± 0.63 ° to a postoperative week-one valgus of 2.37 ± 0.28 ° , and it had a valgus of 2.48 ± 0.39 ° at the final follow-up ( P < 0.01 ). No significant difference in the valgus was found compared with the postoperative week-one, final follow-up and preoperatively determined valgus of 2.34 ± 0.26 ° ( P > 0.05 ). The postoperative week-one and final follow-up FFAs were 90.34 ± 1.53 ° and 90.33 ± 1.52 ° , respectively, and no significant difference was found compared with the preoperatively determined value of 90.12 ± 1.72 ° and the intraoperative setting value of 90.25 ± 1.67 ° ( P > 0.05 ). All corrected values were within the acceptable range of preoperative planning. Conclusion. Preoperative planning of the FFA may be useful in OWHTO for patients with mild medial knee OA. Satisfactory correction of the postoperative targeted mechanical axis line of the lower limb can be obtained.

BACKGROUND: Soldiers that suffer a service-related knee musculoskeletal injury routinely develop joint osteoarthritis. Knee osteoarthritis is a substantial and costly problem among soldiers, yet it is unknown how body borne load and duration of walking impact knee adduction biomechanics linked to progression and severity of osteoarthritis. RESEARCH QUESTION: This study determined the adaptations in magnitude and variability of knee adduction joint angle (KAA) and moment (KAM) during prolonged walking with body borne load. METHODS: Thirteen recreationally active participants had knee biomechanics quantified while walking over-ground for 60-minutes at 1.3 m/s with three body borne loads (0, 15, and 30 kg). Magnitude and variability of KAA and KAM measures were quantified and submitted to a RM ANOVA to test the main effect and interactions between load ( 0, 15 and 30 kg) and time ( 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes ). RESULTS: Body borne load increased peak KAM (p0.05). SIGNIFICANCE: Prolonged walking with heavy body borne load increased knee adduction biomechanics related to osteoarthritis. Adding heavy body borne load increased in peak KAM whereas duration of walking increased KAA, knee biomechanics that may increase loading of the medial knee joint compartment and risk of OA at the joint.

About half of the elderly population has knee osteoarthritis (OA), showing altered gait patterns with increased fall risk. The current study aimed to identify the effects of severe bilateral medial knee osteoarthritis on gait balance control, in terms of the inclination angle (IA) of the center of pressure to center of mass vector, and the rate of change of IA (RCIA). Fifteen older adults with severe bilateral medial knee OA and 15 healthy controls walked at their preferred walking speed while the kinematic and forceplate data were measured to calculate IA, RCIA and temporal–spatial parameters. The OA group showed compromised gait balance control, due to a decreased average and range of sagittal RCIA over double-limb support (DLS, p

In several cases persistent medial knee pain remains after conservative treatment in patients with medial patellar plica syndrome. In recent literature accepted criteria for surgical indication are lacking. In this retrospective study patients after conservative treatment were evaluated to identify predictors for an unsuccessful outcome. 117 Patients with medial patellar plica syndrome between 2016 and 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. All patients received conservative treatment for three months. Surgery was indicated due to failed conservative treatment (n = 76) with persistent medial knee pain and restriction of activity after 3 months. Preoperative MRI analysis, Lysholm score, pain by the visual analog scale (VAS), postoperative sports participation (RTS) and Tegner activity score were collected at least 12 months after definite treatment. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate differences between patients with successful and unsuccessful conservative treatment. There were significant differences in the clinical and radiological findings between patients with successful and unsuccessful conservative treatment. Patients with failed conservative treatment showed a significant larger diameter of the medial patellar plica (0.8 ± 0.3 mm vs. 1.6 ± 0.4 mm; p

[Purpose] Lateral knee instability is frequently observed in patients with knee injury or risk factors associated with knee osteoarthritis. Physical exercises can strengthen muscles that stabilize the knee joint. The purpose of this study was to define the contribution of the knee and hip muscles to lateral knee stability by comparing the muscle forces, as assessed by musculoskeletal simulation using one or two degrees-of-freedom (1-DOF and 2-DOF) knee models. [Participants and Methods] We evaluated the normal gait of 15 healthy subjects. We conducted a three-dimensional gait analysis using a motion analysis system and a force plate. We considered a muscle as a lateral knee stabilizer when the calculated muscle force was greater with the 2-DOF model than with the 1-DOF model. [Results] During early and late stance, the muscle forces of the lateral knee and hip joint increased in the 2-DOF model as opposed to in the 1-DOF model. In contrast, the forces of the medial knee muscles decreased. Furthermore, hip muscle forces increased during the late stance. [Conclusion] Our results show that the lateral knee and hip muscles contribute to lateral knee stability. Thus, exercises to strengthen these muscles could improve lateral knee stability.

Gait modification strategies are effective in reducing knee joint loads, which are associated with the development and progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, the effect of modification of the initial foot contact method in high-loading descending task was not investigated. Here, we show that the initial foot contact strategy significantly alters knee joint moments during descending tasks. We found that the second peak flexion moment was lower for the forefoot strike (FFS) than for the rearfoot strike (RFS) in both stair and ramp descent. As for the peak adduction moment, the second peak was lower for the FFS in stair descent, but two peaks were inconsistent in ramp descent. Our results demonstrate that the knee joint loads can be reduced by simple modification of the initial foot contact strategy. In both descending modalities, the FFS may benefit people with early OA in the patellofemoral joint, whose progression is associated with the peak flexion moment. Likewise, the FFS during stair descent may benefit people with early OA in the medial knee, whose progression is associated with the peak adduction moment. The results would be helpful for prevention and rehabilitation programmes of knee OA.

Despite good clinical outcomes, unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) still rises concerns as treatment for isolated medial knee arthritis, to the point that total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is still largely perceived as the best solution. The purpose of this study is to compare clinical results and survivorship rates of two different options for isolated medial arthritis in the same patient, UKA versus TKA, at a mid-term follow-up. Materials and methods. We retrospectively reviewed 22 patients with isolated medial arthritis treated with UKA in the period between 2004 and 2013, who had previously undergone TKA on the other knee. The mean follow-up was 9.2 years for UKA. The inclusion criteria were that preoperative KSS and KOOS scores were similar or presumed similar for both knees, and that the same degree of osteoarthritis affected both knees. Results. Clinical evaluation was carried on according to KSS and KOOS scores. At the final follow-up at 9.2 years, clinical outcomes between UKA and TKA were very similar. Significantly better results were, however, seen in range of motion (ROM) for UKA implants. Among patients invited to choose between the two procedures, 10 expressed no preference, 8 indicated a preference for UKA, and 4 for TKA. Final survivorship at 9.2 years follow-up was 95% for UKA and 100% for TKA. Conclusions. No differences were reported between TKA and UKA in terms of KSS and KOOS scores at a mid term follow-up, while significantly better results were detected for UKA considering ROM.

ResumoA artrose medial do joelho é uma patologia evolutiva que ocorre em decorrência de desequilíbrio muscular progressivo. Os músculos da região do joelho têm um grande desequilíbrio, provocado pela diferença de potência e braço de alavanca. Com a progressão da vida, este desequilíbrio se manifesta de forma mais importante, especialmente em decorrência da perda de força muscular em função do envelhecimento. Posturas patológicas passam a ocorrer e determinar zonas de apoio e pressão lesivas para a articulação. A lesão meniscal é típica na evolução desta patologia, assim como a lesão da cartilagem. O reconhecimento desta patologia possibilita resultados bons com tratamentos menos agressivos, como a correção do desequilíbrio muscular e consequente reeducação do apoio da articulação. A meniscectomia econômica e parcial traz bons resultados nas fases iniciais do processo degenerativo. A evolução progressiva leva à degeneração do joelho e à consequente necessidade de cirurgias mais amplas.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of backward gait training protocol on ground reaction forces in Patients with medial knee Osteoarthritis. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was performed with a pretest-posttest design in two groups of healthy and unhealthy and the experimental group (participants with medial knee osteoarthritis). The participants were 21 healthy and 42 unhealthy men with knee osteoarthritis who were divided into two experimental and control groups according to the Kellgren and Lawrence radiologic scale and the visual analogue scale. The experimental group performed backward gait training for six weeks. Two Kistler force plates (1000Hz) were used to measure parameters by Vicon Nexus 1.8.5, Polygon 4.1.2 software. For statistical analysis One-Way ANOVA test was used through SPSS, version 20 (p≤0.05). Results: Before training, there was a significant difference between the groups of the patients and healthy participants for the first peak of vertical (Fz1) and vertical valley (valley), braking force (AP1), propulsive force (AP2) of ground reaction forces (P

The conservative techniques of treating knee osteoarthritis (kOA) include wearing orthoses such as knee braces and laterally wedged insoles and applying gait modification techniques such as toe-in gait and toe-out gait. This study aimed at assessing the immediate effects of these techniques in improving physical function of healthy and kOA participants. Five Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) recommended performance-based tests were randomly applied to measure physical function: (1) 30-second chair stand test (30CST), (2) 40-m (4 × 10) fast-paced walk test (40FPW), (3) stair climb test (SCT), (4) timed up and go test (TUGT) and (5) 6-minute walk test (6MWT) during a single-visit on 20 healthy and 20 kOA patients (age: 59.5 ± 7.33 and 61.5 ± 8.63 years, BMI: 69.95 ± 9.86 and 70.45 ± 8.80 kg/m2). The interventions included natural gait, toe-out gait, toe-in gait, laterally wedged insoles and knee brace. Analysis was performed through repeated-measures ANOVA and independent sample t-test. 30CST and TUGT showed no significant differences for the five test conditions ( p > 0.05). Toe-out showed profound effects via pairwise comparison in impairing the physical function while knee brace improved it during 40FPW, SCT and 6MWT. In general, all the tested conservative techniques except laterally wedged insoles had immediate effects on physical performance measures in both healthy and medial knee osteoarthritis participants. The valgus knee brace improved the parameters the most, while toe-out gait impaired them the most. Future studies can develop strategies for improving gait retraining methods on the basis of issues identified by this study.

Background Although plain radiology is the primary method for assessing joint space width (JSW), it has poor sensitivity to change over time in regards to determining longitudinal progression. We, therefore, developed a new ultrasound (US) measurement method of knee JSW and aimed to provide a monitoring method for the change of JSW in the future. Methods A multicenter study was promoted by the Professional Committee of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound, the Ultrasound Society, and the Chinese Medical Doctor Association. US study of knee specimens determined the landmarks for ultrasonic measurement of knee JSW. The US of 1,272 participants from 27 centers was performed to discuss the feasibility and possible influencing factors of knee JSW. The landmarks for US measurement of knee JS, the inflection point of medial femoral epicondyle and the proximal end of the tibia, were determined. Results The mean knee JSW1 (medial knee JSW) was 8.57±1.95 mm in females and 9.52±2.31 mm in males. The mean knee JSW2 (the near medial knee JSW) was 9.07±2.24 mm in females and 10.17±2.35 mm in males. The JSW values of males were significantly higher than those of females, with a statistical difference. JSW values were negatively correlated with age and body mass index (BMI) to different degrees and positively correlated with height. Conclusions The novel US measurement method can be used to measure knee JSW.

Numerous studies investigated the association between dynamic knee valgus and injury risk in post-pubertal and elite athletes; however, normative reference scores for competitive alpine skiers and observations on the development process throughout and beyond athletes' growth spurt are lacking. Thus, the aim of this study was to describe the dynamic knee valgus of competitive alpine skiers during drop jump landings (DJ) and single-leg squats (SLS) with respect to sex, sportive level, and biological maturation. Thirty-seven elite and 104 youth competitive alpine skiers around the growth spurt (U15) were examined for their maximal medial knee displacement (MKD) during DJ and SLS by a marker-based 3D motion analysis evaluating dynamic knee valgus. Additionally, skiers' age, anthropometry and biological maturation were assessed. MKD of youth and elite alpine skiers during DJ was comparable and did not improve with increasing training age. Female U15 skiers (on average further matured) had significantly larger MKD values during DJ than male U15 skiers (less matured) (P

Unicondylar femoral fractures are uncommon injuries, known to occur primarily in young people, with high energy trauma. However, according to our experiences, unicondylar femoral fractures in geriatric patients generally involved the medial femoral condyle, unlike previously reported. In addition, the fractures of medial femoral condyle (FMFC) showed a characteristic fracture pattern. To date, there has been no published article focusing on the FMFC in geriatric patients. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of FMFC in geriatric patients and to present their outcomes. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 13 patients over age of 65 who underwent surgery for FMFC (AO-OTA 33B2). Of the 13, 10 patients were treated with Tomofix medial distal femoral plate (MDF) (Synthes GmbH, Switzerland) and additional screws fixation; the other three were treated with screw fixation and cast application. The mean age of patients was 76.8 years, and 10 patients were females. The fracture was due to low-energy trauma in all of the cases. Eight patients had medial knee osteoarthritis, and 2 patients were on osteoporosis treatment. A characteristic fracture pattern was observed. The fracture line extended from the lateral aspect of the intercondylar notch to the posteromedial column of the distal femur, with a characteristic medial beak. All fractures belonged to AO classification 33B2.1; there were no cases of AO classification 33B2.2 or 33B2.3. The postoperative joint function was graded according to the Kolmert functional criteria: ten cases were excellent, one case was good, one case was fair, and one case was poor. FMFC caused by low-energy trauma in geriatric patients tend to have a characteristic pattern. We believe that anatomic reduction and firm fixation with Tomofix MDF plate and cannulated screw for low-energy trauma FMFC in geriatric patients would yield good outcomes.

Purpose: 1) To compare group-level physical activity calculated from a single versus multiple non-consecutive, one-week accelerometer monitoring periods in individuals with medial-compartment knee osteoarthritis and asymptomatic controls; and 2) to examine agreement among these estimates of physical activity at the individual-level. Methods: Accelerometer data from 38 individuals with knee osteoarthritis and 47 asymptomatic individuals was collected during three non-consecutive monitoring periods over one year. General linear models examined the effects of number of sessions averaged (one, two, or three) and group on light and moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity, step count, and sedentary behavior. Bland Altman analyses examined agreement between one-, two-, and/or three-session averages. Results: There were no sessions by group interactions. There was a main effect of sessions for sedentary behavior that was borderline significant when expressed as percent wear time. Limits of agreement indicated that two-session average versus single-session metrics could differ by ±50 minutes for light physical activity, ±20 minutes for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and ±2100 steps per day. Conclusions: These data suggest that objective physical activity monitoring practices might differ between clinical research, where group data are compared, and clinical decision making, where individual data are compared. Good estimates of group level differences in step count, light, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were found using a single session of accelerometer data, but a single session of sedentary behavior data should take wear time into account. The large limits of agreement indicate that multiple sessions may be needed to compare these metrics among or within individuals.

Background Knee osteoarthritis is a disease of the joint causing decreased function and pain. Currently, treatments range from medication to surgery, with the use of different insoles and footwear recommended. These methods are effective by either correcting the position of the knee or providing shock absorption. However, there is little understanding of the effective characteristics of these devices. Research question This paper aims to investigate this question and provide future areas of research to help better define treatment guidelines. Foot orthoses are an example of non-pharmacological conservative treatments mentioned in National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines to treat knee osteoarthritis (OA). These include lateral wedge insoles (LWI), developed with the intention of load reduction of the knee. Different footwear has also been shown to affect pain, biomechanical and functional outcomes in knee OA patients. Methods To address what features of LWIs and footwear make them effective in the treatment of knee OA, scientific databases were used to search for papers on this topic and then selected to be included based on pre-defined criteria. Data were extracted and analysed from these studies to provide a basis for possible areas for future development of these foot orthoses, and research required to improve clinical treatment guidelines. Databases used were PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. Results and significance Thirty-four out of 226 papers were included after application of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Regarding LWIs, the characteristics showing the most beneficial effect on either biomechanical, functional or pain outcomes were customisation, full-length, 5° elevation, shock absorption and arch support. For footwear, barefoot mimicking soles produced the most favourable biomechanics. Results also showed that insoles work in correcting the position of the knee, but it may or may not affect patients’ pain and function.

An extensive anatomical knowledge of the muscle popliteus and its tendon is indispensable to understand the posterolateral structures of the knee which is prone to injury compared to the medial knee structures. This study describes all the relevant anatomical details of the muscle and its clinical significance. Anatomical and clinical terms regarding the popliteus muscle are searched using databases and search engines for the collection of literature review. Abstracts and articles describing the posterolateral corner (PLC) structures apart from the muscle studied were excluded. Seventy-six articles were adopted using the inclusion and exclusion criteria, among which 62 articles had fulfilled the need. Original articles dealing with morphology and morphometric analysis of popliteus muscle are scarce. Hence, the finer details of the anatomy of the muscle in various populations are unavailable, which is considered as a deficiency of the study. This article deals with the morphology of the popliteus and its clinical and surgical implications pertaining to the PLC of the knee.

The habitual motion path theory predicts that humans tend to maintain their habitual motion path (HMP) during locomotion. The HMP is the path of least resistance of the joints defined by an individual’s musculoskeletal anatomy and passive tissue properties. Here we tested whether participants with higher HMP deviation and whether using footwear that increases HMP deviation during running show higher reductions of knee joint articular cartilage volume after 75 minutes of running. We quantified knee joint articular cartilage volumes before and after the run using a 3.0-Tesla MRI. We performed a 3D movement analysis of runners in order to quantify their HMP from a two-legged squat motion and the deviation from the HMP when running in different footwear conditions. We found significantly more cartilage volume reductions in the medial knee compartment and patella for participants with higher HMP deviation. We also found higher cartilage volume reductions on the medial tibia when runners wore a shoe that maximized their HMP deviation compared with the shoe that minmized their HMP deviation. Runners might benefit from reducing their HMP deviation and from selecting footwear by quantifying HMP deviation in order to minimize joint cartilage loading in sub-areas of the knee.

Background and Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of backward gait training protocol on knee adduction moment and impulse in male patients with medial knee osteoarthritis. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest design included two control groups (healthy and patient) and an experimental group (subjects with medial knee osteoarthritis). The subjects were 21 healthy men and 42 male patients with knee osteoarthritis who were divided into experimental and control groups according to the Kellgren and Lawrence radiologic scale and visual analogue scale. The experimental group performed backward gait training for six weeks. The dependent variables included 1st peak knee adduction moment, normalized 1st peak KAM, 2nd peak knee adduction moment and normalized 2nd peak KAM. A Vicon (130 Hz) motion analysis system with four T-Series cameras and two Kistler force plates (1000Hz) were used for data registration. Using Vicon Nexus 1.8.5 and polygon 4.1.2 softwares, data analysis was performed by paired sample t-test and one-way ANOVA (p0.05). However, before training significant differences were observe in knee adduction moment impulse between the healthy subjects and patients (P=0.014, P=0.004). After exercise we found decreased mean value for normalized knee adduction moment impulse in the experimental group compared to that in the healthy control group (p=0.067). Conclusion: Knee adduction moment impulse can be regarded as a predictive index with high sensitivity for evaluation of the severity of knee OA. Implementation of backward gait training protocol led to decreased knee adduction moment impulse in the experimental group.

This chapter describes the clinical background for medial knee instability and the indications for surgical treatment of medial collateral ligament (MCL) and posteromedial corner injuries. Historically, treatment of acute medial collateral ligament injuries has focused on nonoperative therapies with early controlled motion with relatively good reported patient outcomes. However, more severe acute and symptomatic chronic medial knee injuries may require operative management. Injuries that involve all medial and posteromedial structures, the superficial MCL, the deep MCL, the posterior oblique ligament and the posterior capsule are characterised as a grade 3 injury and have a greater risk of developing chronic medial and rotatory instability requiring surgical treatment. In this chapter the anatomical and biomechanical background for medial knee laxity is presented and related to clinical evaluation. Treatment decision strategies are detailed based on clinical and imaging findings. Finally the key techniques for anatomical reconstruction of the MCL are described, including their clinical outcomes.

Iliotibial band friction syndrome (ITBFS) is an overuse injury with pain at the level of the knee lateral epicondyle. We sought to determine whether there is greater knee lateral epicondyle prominence among patients with ITBFS versus matched controls.Seventy five patients with ITBFS and 75 age-, height-, and sex-matched controls (n = 150 total patients) with knee magnetic resonance imaging from 2015 to 2017 were included. All cases had a diagnosis of ITBFS and a lack of other identified lateral knee injuries on magnetic resonance imaging. Controls had medial knee pain with medial meniscus tear on MRI and no clinical evidence of ITBFS. Lateral knee epicondyle height in millimeters was measured.Mean patient age was 39.1 years (SD 15.1), 57% were female, and mean height was 170.0 cm (SD 9.3) with no difference between cases and controls. Mean lateral epicondyle height for cases was 13.1 mm (SD 1.6) and for controls was 12.2 (SD 1.4) with a mean difference of 0.9 mm (95% CI 0.4-1.3 mm) between matched pairs (p 0.001). Mean epicondyle height:condylar AP width ratio was 0.211 (SD 0.023) for cases and 0.198 (SD 0.020) for controls with a mean difference of 0.013 (95% CI 0.006-0.020) between matched pairs (p 0.001).There is a significant association between greater lateral epicondyle prominence and IT band friction syndrome, suggesting another anatomic risk factor for this multifactorial condition.

Context: Figure skating requires power and stability for take-off and landing from multi-rotational jumps and various on-ice skills. Repetitive forces may cause overuse injuries distally making lumbopelvic-hip endurance, strength, and neuromuscular control imperative. Objective: The purpose was to compare lumbopelvic-hip endurance and neuromuscular control in elite figure skaters between sex and limbs using common screening tests. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Center. Participants: Forty elite figure skaters (23.2±4.3 years, 169.1±12.2 cm, 20F, 40R landing limb) performed the Y-balance test, single leg squat (SLS), single leg squat jump (SLSJ), and unilateral hip bridge endurance test. Main Outcome Measures: Normalized reach difference (% of leg length) and composite scores (((Anterior + Posteromedial + Posterolateral)/Limb length x 3) x100) were calculated for Y-balance test. Skaters held the unilateral hip bridge until failure with a maximum allotted time of 120s. Participants performed 5 SLS and SLSJ, barefooted with the contralateral limb held behind them to mimic a landing position. Both tests were scored by the number of times the patella moved medially to the first ray (medial knee displacement (MKD)). MANOVA with post-hoc independent t-tests were performed between groups and sex. Paired t-tests were used to analyze limb differences. Results: Females had a larger composite Y-balance score (R:+10.8, p=.002; L:+10.5, p=.001) and hip bridge hold time (R:+26.4 sec, p=.004; L:+28.2 sec, p=.002) on both limbs compared to males. Males held the hip bridge longer on their landing limb. During the SLS and SLSJ, 6 skaters performed worse on their non-landing limb during the SLS, and 11 skaters had no MKD with either test. Conclusions: Females performed better on the Y-balance and unilateral hip bridge tests. Increased MKD for some skaters in the SLS and SLSJ may indicate hip abductor weaknesses. Understanding proximal lumbopelvic-hip variables during take-off and landing may elucidate contributing factors to distal overuse injuries.

Background: In cases of multiple ligaments or medial collateral ligament (MCL) reconstruction, restoring the native anatomy of the posterior oblique ligament (POL) to address chronic valgus instability has been attracting increased attention. Purpose: To review the current literature on postoperative outcomes, complications, and return to sports after superficial MCL-POL (sMCL-POL) reconstruction to restore medial knee integrity. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A systematic review was conducted based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Two independent reviewers searched the PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases using the terms “posterior oblique ligament,” “posteromedial corner of the knee,” and “reconstruction.” Included were studies that reported postoperative clinical and functional outcomes in patients who had undergone a combined sMCL-POL reconstruction for medial knee instability. The authors evaluated surgical technique, rehabilitation protocol, postoperative outcomes (Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC], and Tegner scores and valgus stress radiograph), and return to sports and complication rates across the included studies. Results: A total of 6 studies were reviewed. The cohort consisted of 199 patients (121 men and 78 women), with a mean age of 32.7 ± 3.9 years (range, 27.4-36.6 years). The Lysholm and IKDC scores improved from pre- to postoperatively (Lysholm, from 67.2 ± 20.4 to 89.4 ± 3; IKDC, from 45.8 ± 2.1 to 84.8 ± 7.5). The Tegner score produced satisfactory results, from a preoperative mean of 3.3 ± 2.4 to 6.3 ± 0.9 postoperatively. The medial joint opening on valgus stress radiographs ranged from 7.5 ± 1.1 mm preoperatively to 3 ± 3.1 mm postoperatively. After passing activity-specific functional and clinical tests, 88% to 91.3% of the patients were reported to have returned to recreational sports within 6 to 12 months postoperatively, whereas 10% of the patients developed postoperative complications. Conclusion: Satisfactory clinical and functional outcomes, a high rate of return to recreational sports, and a low rate of postoperative complications were reported after an sMCL-POL reconstruction to restore medial knee integrity.

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative articular disease. The knee joint space width (JSW) is used for grading the severity of knee OA. However, there is a lack of research on differences in the widths of knee joints between both lower limbs in unilateral OA. The purpose of this research was to examine the radiological difference in the affected knee joint and contralateral knee joint by analyzing unilateral older adults with medial knee OA using both knees’ JSW differences. Twenty-five subjects with unilateral medial knee OA participated. X-ray radiographs were used to assess knee JSW, and the paired [Formula: see text]-test was performed to assess the knee joint gap width between the affected side and the unaffected side in the respective medial and lateral sides. The independent [Formula: see text]-test compared the differences between the lateral and medial knee JSWs on the affected side and unaffected side. The paired [Formula: see text]-test did not show a significant difference in the medial and lateral knee JSW on the affected side compared to the unaffected side ([Formula: see text]; 0.11). Meanwhile, the independent [Formula: see text]-test revealed a significant difference between the affected and unaffected sides ([Formula: see text]). This study showed no significant changes in affected knee JSWs compared to unaffected sides, but the difference between the lateral and medial JSWs was significant between the knees affected and unaffected by OA in the older adults with medial knee OA.