Abstract
Introduction
This analysis determined whether the type and level of physical activity changes during the initial 24 months post-total hip (THR) or total knee replacement (TKR) compared to pre-operative levels, and how this change compares to people without arthroplasty or osteoarthritis.
Patients/Materials & Methods
Data from a prospective cohort dataset (Osteoarthritis Initiative dataset) of community-dwelling individuals who had undergone a primary THR or TKR were identified. These were compared to people who had not undergone an arthroplasty and who did not have a diagnosis of hip or knee osteoarthritis during the follow-up period (control). Data were analysed comparing between-group and within-group differences for physical activity (gardening, domestic activities, sports, employment, walking) within the first 24 months post-arthroplasty.
Results
In total, 116 participants were analysed in the TKR group, 105 in the THR group. These cohorts were compared to 3441 (control) participants. Whilst physical activity largely increased from pre-operative levels during the first 12 months post-operatively, this change reverted at the 24 month assessment to pre-operative levels in people who underwent THR. There appeared limited change (increase nor decrease) in physical activity at 12 or 24 months post-operatively compared to pre-operative levels in people who underwent TKR. Compared to the non-arthroplasty cohorts, physical activity was consistently greater in the non-arthroplasty group at 12 and 24 months post-pre-operative/baseline measures.
Discussion
There is limited change in the level or type of physical activity undertaken between people before or after THR or TKR in the first 24 post-operative months. Physical activity levels are lower in people following THR and TKR compared to people with similar characteristics who have not undergone arthroplasty or have osteoarthritis.
Conclusion
Health strategies are warranted to address the limited increase in post-operative physical activity, to encourage this post-arthroplasty population to engage and maintain physical activity pursuits for wider health benefits.
