Applying the Knowledge-to-Action Framework to Implement and Evaluate an Evidence-Based Functional Exercise Program...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Geriatric Care

Background:

• Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common procedure for elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis.
• Postoperative rehabilitation is crucial for optimal functional recovery and patient satisfaction.
• Current rehabilitation protocols may not be fully optimized for the unique needs of elderly TKA patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a systematic, evidence-based rehabilitation intervention for elderly TKA patients.
• To incorporate stakeholder input into the intervention design.
• To evaluate the impact of the developed intervention on patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A Knowledge-to-Action (KTA) Framework guided the study.
• Systematic literature synthesis identified 17 evidence-based recommendations.
• Expert panels and stakeholder interviews informed intervention development.
• A quasi-experimental study assessed preliminary efficacy in 60 patients.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significantly improved postoperative pain control (P < 0.05).
• Enhanced range of motion and knee function were observed in the intervention group (P < 0.05).
• No baseline differences existed between the intervention and control groups.

Conclusions:

• The evidence-based rehabilitation program significantly improved functional recovery and pain management compared to standard care.
• This structured intervention framework leads to clinically meaningful improvements in early postoperative outcomes after TKA.