Effectiveness of an exercise program among total knee arthroplasty patients at Phayakkhaphum Phisai hospital, Maha SaraKham province.

Abstract

      This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of an exercise program among patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty at Phayakkhaphum Phisai Hospital. This quasi-experimental study was conducted between October 2022 and September 2024. The sample consisted of 25 elderly patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty. The implemented exercise program encompassed preoperative preparation, thigh muscle strengthening, knee range of motion (ROM) improvement, gait training, and continuous postoperative rehabilitation. Follow-up assessments were conducted at 2, 12, 24, and 52 weeks post-operation. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) and Repeated Measures Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE).

      Results: Following the implementation of the exercise program, patients experienced a statistically significant reduction in pain levels (Adj Mean Diff = -0.016; 95% CI: -0.021 to -0.011; p < 0.001). The degree of knee flexion increased by an average of 0.412 degrees per week (95% CI: 0.330 to 0.494; p < 0.001), and knee extension also significantly improved (Adj Mean Diff = 0.024; 95% CI: 0.008 to 0.040; p = 0.003). Furthermore, the walking distance increased by an average of 5.913 meters per week (95% CI: 4.993 to 6.834; p < 0.001).