Falls are a significant issue for patients with knee osteoarthritis, as they can lead to hospitalization or even more severe consequences. Therefore, it is crucial to assess fall risk early in rehabilitation clinics. Sarcopenia, which is the reduction of muscle mass, increases the risk of falls. This study involved 250 adults with knee osteoarthritis, using a technology called POCUS to assess muscle mass, combined with other tests to track fall incidents over three months. The study is expected to find correlations between falls and factors like muscle mass and grip strength. This information can help doctors better predict which patients are at risk of falling and take preventive measures early. Future research will explore the effectiveness of different prevention strategies.
Males and females aged 60 and above, who are willing to sign an informed consent form.
Participants must have a clinically confirmed diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis.
Participants must have received at least one treatment in the outpatient rehabilitation department during the study period.
Participants must be able to walk independently, even with the aid of assistive devices.
Individuals who have undergone lower limb surgery or have significant lower limb deformities.
Individuals with severe cognitive impairment who are unable to understand or comply with the study procedures.
Individuals who cannot communicate in a language understandable by the research team.
Individuals with severe comorbidities that affect assessment or treatment (e.g., unable to safely complete assessments or treatments).
National Taiwan University Clinical Trial Center
Lead sponsor
National Taiwan University Hospital
Sponsor institution