The association between tibial torsion and knee joint pathology.

To study the association of tibial torsion with knee joint pathology, measurements have been made using a simple tropometer suitable for use in an outpatient clinic. Patient measurements in 11 diagnostic groups were compared with a control group. Two groups differed significantly from the controls. Those patients with patellofemoral instability had greater than normal external tibial torsion, whereas patients with pan-articular osteoarthrosis of the knee had reduced external torsion or true internal torsion. Abnormal torsion causes a gait adaptation, thus affecting external loading on the knee joint, which in turn may lead to osteoarthrosis.