Impact of Unilateral Knee Osteoarthritis on Postural Stability and Gait Initiation in Older Adults

Abstract

Leonardo Alves Marques, Matheus de Menezes Furtado, Emilio Roberto Valiatti Zanotti and Juan Daniel Zuniga Pro

This study investigated postural stability in older adults with and without unilateral knee osteoarthritis, focusing on static balance and gait initiation. Forty older adults participated, divided into two groups: one diagnosed with osteoarthritis and the other without the condition. Center of Pressure (COP) variables were evaluated under open and closed-eye conditions, as well as during the gait initiation phase. The results indicated that osteoarthritis significantly impacts postural control, especially during the anticipatory phase of gait and in conditions without visual feedback, demonstrating a greater reliance on proprioception. The osteoarthritis group showed higher amplitudes and velocities of COP displacement, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve stability and reduce fall risk.

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