Increased physical activity seen after TKR in developing world

(HealthDay)—For patients in the developing world, total knee replacement (TKR) increases participation in physical activities in several life domains, according to a study published in the January issue of Arthritis Care & Research.

Derek S. Stenquist, A.B., from Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, and colleagues examined the impact of TKR on physical activity for patients in a developing nation. Eighteen Dominican TKR patients were interviewed about their level of physical activity one to four years after surgery.

According to the researchers, most patients reported that TKR increased their participation in physical activities in various life domains, including occupational and social pursuits. Uncertainty about medically appropriate levels of joint use and postoperative physical activity caused some patients to limit their own physical activities. Positive effects of TKR were noted by many patients on mood and mental health. Religion offered a framework of understanding for their receipt of and experience with TKR among most patients in the study.

"Our findings underscore the potential of TKR to permit patients in the developing world to return to physical activities," the authors write. "This research also demonstrates the influence of patients' education, culture, and religion on patients' return to physical activity."