The knee-ankle link: impact of knee varus severity on distal joint malalignment and concomitant pathologies.

In 30 seconds

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the impact of knee varus severity on distal joint malalignment and associated pathologies. The analysis included fourteen studies, revealing that severe knee varus (HKA > 10°) significantly increased the odds of concomitant ankle osteoarthritis (OR 2.29; 95% CI 1.28-4.11) and a prevalence of 37.1%.

Key findings

• Severe knee varus (HKA > 10°) is linked to increased odds of ankle osteoarthritis (OR 2.29; 95% CI 1.28-4.11).
• The prevalence of ankle osteoarthritis in a specific cohort was found to be 37.1%.
• Compensatory hindfoot valgus was observed in up to 69.9% of certain cohorts.
• Rigid varus was noted in up to 63.9% of other study populations.

Why it matters

Understanding the relationship between knee varus severity and distal joint pathologies is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies. This knowledge can help clinicians address not only the knee deformity but also its broader implications on the kinetic chain.