The Usefulness of the Single-Leg Squat Test for Deciding Whether to Start Stair Ambulation Training after Total Knee Arthroplasty

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of the Single-Leg Squat Test (SLST) for determining whether to initiate stair ambulation training after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
Methods: This study included 100 patients who underwent TKA at our hospital. The participants underwent a stair climbing test (SCT) and SLST 3 months postoperatively. A cross-tabulation table was created for the SLST and SCT.
Results: Overall, 85 patients (85.0%) underwent SCT, of whom six were SLST impossible and 79 were SLST possible. Of the 15 patients who were unable to undergo SCT, 10 were SLST impossible and five were SLST possible. Sensitivity and specificity were 0.67 and 0.93, respectively.
Conclusion: The SLST is a simple and safe way to evaluate the afferent and efferent contractile function of the quadriceps muscles necessary for stair ambulation.