Is there a difference between the ability to kneel after unilateral and bilateral total knee replacement?

Abstract

This study investigates the difference between the ability to kneel in patients after unilateral and bilateral total knee replacement. We used the Oxford knee questionnaire to assess knee function, and an additional question was introduced to identify the reasons for any difficulty or inability to kneel. Responses were received from 424 patients representing an 88.9% response rate. There was a statistically significant (p <0.01) difference in kneeling ability between the two groups. With bilateral total knee replacement, 73% of patients found it extremely difficult or impossible to kneel, compared to 62% of patients with unilateral total knee replacement. There was no statistical difference between the two groups in their overall Oxford knee function score or in their responses on reasons for difficulty or inability to kneel.