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 ha ve knee replacement operations, frequently they increase their activities. It is important for patients with knee replacements to understand the impac t of athletic activity on the outcome of knee replacements. Orthopaedic sur geons should educate patients regarding athletic activity after total knee arthroplasty, Considerations and risk factors for athletic activity after k nee replacements include athletic activity before surgery, preoperative reh abilitation, surgical reconstruction, implant failure or fracture, implant fixation or loosening, and joint bearing surface wear, Anatomic reconstruct ion and compulsive postoperative rehabilitation with restoration of muscula r 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 spo rts.