Date of Award

2000

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Beverly Johnson

Keywords

Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee; Muscles -- physiology

Abstract

Currently, there are over 120,000 total knee arthroplasties (TKA) performed yearly in the United States with total hospital and physician expenses for each procedure ranging from $25,000 to $30,000. Majority of individuals who undergo a TKA continue to exhibit lower extremity strength deficits specifically quadriceps and hamstring weakness. Clinicians and physical therapists question if these individuals receive the level of rehabilitation necessary for the return of quadriceps and hamstring strength.

The purpose of this pilot study was to investigate the logistics of setting up a study to determine if there was a significant difference between the strength of the involved extremity to the strength of the uninvolved extremity in individuals with unilateral TKAs. Five subjects were randomly selected for the study. Strength testing was performed at Altru Hospital using a Cybex 6000 isokinetic machine.

The data from the pilot study showed trends and patterns consistent with quadriceps and hamstring weakness following a TKA. Statistical analysis was not performed due to the small number of participants. Continued research is necessary to determine if the rehabilitation period following a TKA is effective in regaining quadriceps and hamstring strength.

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