Athletic Activity After Total Knee Arthroplasty

Americans are aging, elderly Americans are more active, and the prevalence of total knee arthroplasty is increasing. Indications for knee replacement include pain, deformity, and a desire to improve function. When patients have knee replacement operations, frequently they increase their activities. It is important for patients with knee replacements to understand the impact of athletic activity on the outcome of knee replacements. Orthopaedic surgeons should educate patients regarding athletic activity after total knee arthroplasty. Considerations and risk factors for athletic activity after knee replacements include athletic activity before surgery, preoperative rehabilitation, surgical reconstruction, implant failure or fracture, implant fixation or loosening, and joint bearing surface wear. Anatomic reconstruction and compulsive postoperative rehabilitation with restoration of muscular control are important for optimum function after total knee arthroplasty. In general, patients with knee replacements are encouraged to participate in low-impact, low-demand sports, and to avoid high-impact, high-demand sports.