Weight loss and physical activity after total knee replacement: Study protocol for the Healthy Living randomized...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Weight Management
• Public Health

Background:

• Total knee replacement (TKR) patients are often inactive and overweight, increasing risks for poor outcomes and chronic diseases.
• This study addresses the need for effective interventions in this specific clinical population.
• The Healthy Living Study protocol is detailed herein.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a patient-centered weight loss program (PACE) compared to a chronic disease self-management program (CDSM) in adults post-TKR.
• To assess the impact of the PACE program on weight, physical activity, pain, and physical function.
• To examine the cost-effectiveness and mediating factors of the PACE intervention.

Main Methods:

• A 12-month randomized controlled trial involving 212 adults with overweight/obesity (BMI 25-45 kg/m²), who received TKR within 6 months.
• Participants randomized to either the PACE program (telephone-based, focused on diet and physical activity for 7% weight loss) or the CDSM control group.
• Assessments at baseline, 6, 12, and 18 months to measure weight change (primary outcome), physical activity, pain, and physical function.

Main Results:

• Data collection is ongoing; results will determine the efficacy of the PACE program.
• The study will provide insights into the effectiveness of weight loss interventions for TKR patients.
• Analysis will include cost-effectiveness and psychosocial mediators of outcomes.

Conclusions:

• This protocol outlines the Healthy Living randomized controlled trial, targeting a key clinical population.
• The study will determine if a patient-centered weight loss program improves outcomes after TKR.
• Findings are expected to inform clinical practice regarding post-TKR management.