According to research presented at the 2010 American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons annual meeting, knee replacements can help elderly patients improve their balance, preventing future falls.
"We are learning that pain relief may not be the only benefit that improves function after knee replacement. This improved balance is a significant quality-of-life change in elderly patients."—Dr. Leonid Kandel

Joint replacement outcomes often focus on pain relief after surgery for osteoarthritic patients, but improved balance is also a major benefit to undergoing the procedure. In fact, a study conducted in Israel found that there is a stronger link between improved balance and the ability to walk and perform daily activities than there is between reduced pain and the ability to walk and go about daily activities.

Dr. Leonid Kandel, lead author of the study and an orthopedic surgeon at Hadassah Mount Scopus Hospital in Jerusalem, said, "We are learning that pain relief may not be the only benefit that improves function after knee replacement. This improved balance is a significant quality-of-life change in elderly patients." Falls are the leading cause of injury among the elderly US population, and can sometimes end up being fatal.