Muscle Strength and Total Knee Replacement

Purposes: To compare knee extensor muscle strength, physical function and self-reported function before and after total knee replacement with healthy age-matched controls. To describe changes in knee extensor muscle strength up to one year after surgery. To study the relationship between changes in knee extensor muscle strength and changes in physical function, self-reported function and physical activity level and the relationship between changes in knee extensor muscle strength and satisfaction. Methods: A prospective observational study and comparison with controls. 50-55 individuals aged 65 or older, scheduled for total knee arthroplasty will be recruited to the study group. Measurement of study group 0-2 weeks before surgery and 3, 6 and 12 months following surgery. Comparison with 50-55 healthy age-matched controls.