Abstract
[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare the plantar sensation of individuals with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) with controls, and to examine the effect of plantar sensation on the postural sway in individuals with KOA. [Subjects] Sixteen KOA patients and seventeen control participants volunteered. [Methods] Plantar sensations were assessed using Semmes-Weinstein Monofilaments. The path length of center of pressure (LNG), root mean square area and LNG/envelope area (LNG/E.AREA) were measured in the standing position under two different surface conditions (firm and foam). [Result] In the KOA group, the portion of patients whose plantar sensation at the area of 1st metatarsal head was more sensitive than that of 5th metatarsal head was larger than in the control group. Although there was no significant correlation between plantar sensation and LNG/E.AREA in the control group, there was a significant negative correlation in the KOA group. [Conclusion] This result suggests that plantar sensation plays an important role in the postural control of individuals with KOA.
