2013 Reports

The Management of Osteoarthritis in Movement Disorders: A Case Discussion

Stafford, Giles H.; Howard, Robin S.; Lavelle, Jonathon

Background: A 37‐year‐old female with a hyperkinetic movement disorder due to chorea‐acanthocytosis developed severe painful degenerative arthritis of her left knee as a consequence of repetitive involuntary flexion and extension dystonic and ballistic movements.
Case Report: Despite profound limitation in her mobility a total knee replacement was successfully undertaken.
Discussion: The case emphasizes that patients with progressive neurodegenerative disorders may derive relief or resolution of pain by joint replacement even if mobility does not improve following surgery. A multidisciplinary approach to care is essential.