Walking with an induced unilateral knee extension restriction affects lower but not upper body biomechanics in healthy adults

Prolonged immobilization or scarring after injuries often leads to structural changes of the fibrous joint tissue, which may result in contractures of the respective joint [1]. At the knee, the most likely causes for contractures are major trauma, arthritis, and knee surgery [2]. The usual resting position for a swollen knee is about 30 ° of flexion [3], which is why this position is characteristic for knee contractures in orthopedic rehabilitation. Contractures often interfere with the usual movement pattern and can therefore lead to passive and/or active secondary gait deviations [4].

Source: Gait and Posture - July 25, 2018 Category: Orthopaedics Authors: Michael Sotelo, Patric Eichelberger, Martina Furrer, Heiner Baur, Stefan Schmid Source Type: research