Recommendations
Preoperative Exercise Program
➤ Physical therapists should design preoperative exercise programs and teach
patients undergoing TKA to implement strengthening and flexibility exercises.
(Evidence Quality: High, Recommendation Strength: Moderate)
★★★★
Preoperative Education
➤ It is the consensus of the work group that physical therapists or other team
members should provide preoperative education for patients undergoing TKA,
including at a minimum patient expectations during hospitalization and factors
influencing discharge planning and disposition, the postoperative rehabilitation
program, safe transferring techniques, use of assistive devices, and fall
prevention. (Evidence Quality: Insufficient, Recommendation Strength: Best
Practice)
★★★★
Continuous Passive Motion Device (CPM) Use for Mobilization
➤ Physical therapists should NOT use CPMs for patients who have undergone
primary, uncomplicated TKA. (Evidence Quality: High, Recommendation
Strength: Moderate)
★★★★
Cryotherapy
➤ Physical therapists should teach and encourage use of cryotherapy for early
postoperative pain management for patients who have undergone TKA.
(Evidence Quality: High, Recommendation Strength: Moderate)
★★★★
Physical Activity
➤ It is the consensus of the work group that physical therapists should develop
and teach patients who have undergone TKA regarding the importance of early
mobility and appropriate progression of physical activity, based on safety,
functional tolerance, and physiological response. (Evidence Quality: Insufficient,
Recommendation Strength: Best Practice)
★★★★
Motor Function Training (balance, walking, movement, symmetry)
➤ Physical therapists should include motor function training (e.g., balance, walking,
movement symmetry) for patients who have undergone TKA. (Evidence Quality:
High, Recommendation Strength: Strong)
★★★★
