Total joint replacement: A multiple risk factor analysis of physical activity level 1-2 years postoperatively

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• The impact of total joint arthroplasty (TJA) on patient physical activity levels remains incompletely understood.
• Investigating changes in physical activity post-TJA is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes and recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the change in self-reported physical activity after total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
• To identify patient-specific factors, including demographics and comorbidities, associated with variations in physical activity changes following TJA.

Main Methods:

• A registry-based study analyzed primary THA (n=5,678) and TKA (n=11,084) patients from 2010-2012.
• Physical activity (minutes/week) was assessed pre-surgery (within 1 year) and post-surgery (1-2 years).
• Multiple linear regression models were employed to evaluate demographic and comorbidity risk factors.

Main Results:

• Median physical activity increased significantly post-TJA, from 50-58 min/week pre-surgery to 150 min/week post-surgery for both THA and TKA.
• Despite the increase, only 50% of patients achieved recommended physical activity guidelines.
• Higher body mass index, female sex, renal failure, and neurological disorders were associated with lower increases in physical activity.

Conclusions:

• While TJA enhances physical activity, a substantial proportion of patients do not reach recommended levels.
• Targeted patient education and interventions focusing on individuals with higher BMI, female patients, and those with specific comorbidities are recommended to improve post-TJA physical activity.
• Further research should explore strategies to help these subgroups meet physical activity guidelines.