Climbing After Lower Limb Joint Replacement

IntroductionThe impact of lower limb joint replacement on those wishing to return to climbing has not yet been studied. This study aims to assess self-reported return to climbing and any themes or commonalities leading to any reduction in their return to the sport.MethodsAn online questionnaire was widely disseminated to climbers and mountaineers across the United Kingdom. Responses were collected from those who had undergone either hip, knee, or hip and knee replacement. The participants' age range, gender, site and number of joint replacements were recorded together with their current joint-specific and activity scores. Participants also were asked to score their climbing ability in the 3 months prior to surgery and then 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery.ResultsAmong participants, the median Oxford Hip Score (OHS) and Oxford Knee Score (OKS) after surgery ranged from 45.5 to 48 (OHS) and 36 to 48 (OKS). Median measurements of physical performance ranged from 4 to 8 (Tegner) and 7 to 10 (UCLA). The median climbing score fell from 9 (best prior to surgery) to 8 (3 months prior to surgery) (P<0.05). In the 3 months following surgery, the median climbing score fell further to 5 (P<0.05). Although this improved in subsequent months, it did not exceed that found before surgery.ConclusionOur research reveals that it is possible to climb again after lower limb joint replacement. Although some climbers return to their previous level of performance, many do not. Further research is needed to determine why this occurs and what interventions are available for those who wish to do so.