Late group-based rehabilitation has no advantages compared with supervised home-exercises after total knee...

This study aimed to test whether group-based rehabilitation focusing on strength training, education and self-management is more effective than individual, supervised home-training after fast-track total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

We allocated 80 participants undergoing primary TKA to either group-based rehabilitation or individual, supervised home-training (40 participants in each group). The group-based rehabilitation consisted of 12 outpatient visits during six weeks including strength and endurance exercises, education and self-management combined with home exercises. The primary outcome was Oxford Knee Score; secondary outcomes were EuroQoL-5 Dimensions QoL and Physical Function of the Medical Outcomes Short Form 36. Tertiary outcomes were pain, knee range of motion, tandem test, Leg Extensor Power, 10-m walking test, 30-sec. and five-times sit-to-stand. Outcomes were assessed four weeks, three months and six months after surgery. In addition, the questionnaires were completed before surgery.

We found no difference in gain of function or quality of life between the two groups at three and six months follow-up.

Individual, supervised home-training and group-based rehabilitation programmes improved patients' quality of life and physical function equally six months after TKA.

This study was funded by Holstebro Municipality, Region of Central Jutland, and Lundbeck Centre for Fast-Track Hip and Knee Surgery.

The study was registered in the Danish Data Protection Agency (Registration no.: 1-16-02-41-10) and Clinical Trials (Registration no.: KL24621).