Balance and Kinesiophobia in Knee Osteoarthritis: Conventional Treatment Vs Total Knee Replacement

Abstract

Knee osteoarthritis is a common musculoskeletal condition that affects a substantial portion of the population, leading to pain, impaired mobility, and a reduced quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the impact of two distinct treatment approaches, Total Knee Replacement (TKR) and Conventional Treatment, on individuals with knee osteoarthritis. The research was conducted at multiple healthcare facilities in Faridabad, including Sarvodaya Hospital, Fortis Escorts, Metro Heart Institute with Multispecialty, Satya Physiotherapy Clinic, and Relief Physiotherapy Clinic. A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 65 initially screened individuals, with 50 ultimately selected for the study, evenly distributed into two experimental groups. Group A received complete knee replacement, while Group B underwent conventional treatment. Convenient sampling was used to select participants, and inclusion criteria considered age, radiological findings, pain ratings, and ambulatory capacity, while exclusion criteria encompassed various medical and physical factors. The study focused on two primary independent variables: type of treatment (Conventional Treatment or TKR) and dependent variables including balance and kinesiophobia. Balance was assessed through the Single Leg Stance Test and Step Test, and kinesiophobia was measured using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia. After informed consent, participants were guided through the testing procedures, and demographic information was collected. The results revealed significant differences between the two groups, with TKR resulting in improved pain relief, balance, and reduced kinesiophobia. These findings underscore the potential advantages of TKR in managing knee osteoarthritis and inform the development of individualized treatment strategies for this condition.