Total Knee Replacement, Postoperative Recovery, Rehabilitation Outcome
Conditions
Keywords
Kinesiotaping, Total Knee Replacement, Rehabilitation, knee joint Function, Pain Relief
Brief summary
The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy of Kinesiotaping (KT) within postoperative rehabilitation after Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgery by determining whether KT enhances early postoperative outcomes, in terms of reduction of swelling, pain relief and improvement in the function of the knee joint, compared to conventional rehabilitation without the use of KT.
Detailed description
Kinesiotaping and Rehabilitation after Total Knee Replacement The effectiveness of Kinesiotaping (KT) in postoperative rehabilitation remains scientifically unproven, despite its widespread use. KT is believed to reduce pain and swelling, improve muscle function, and enhance joint mobility by promoting blood flow and lymphatic drainage. However, high-quality studies assessing its efficacy, particularly following Total Knee Replacement (TKR), are lacking. Aim of the Study The aim of this study is to demonstrate that KT, when applied during inpatient rehabilitation after TKR, improves clinical outcomes compared to standard rehabilitation without KT. Specifically, the investigators aim to show that: KT reduces postoperative swelling and pain, thereby enhancing knee function. KT promotes faster recovery of muscle strength and range of motion. KT shortens the time needed to achieve key postoperative milestones, allowing for a more effective rehabilitation process.
Interventions
Kinesiotaping will be applied using muscle, lymphatic, and ligament taping techniques to promote healing, reduce swelling, and improve muscle function following total knee replacement surgery.
Patients will receive standard postoperative rehabilitation, including physiotherapy, gait training, and medical exercises, without the application of Kinesiotaping.
Sponsors
Study design
Eligibility
Inclusion criteria
* Adults aged ≥18 years. * Patients who have undergone primary Total Knee Replacement (TKR) with uncomplicated wound conditions. * No signs of infection post-surgery. * Ability to understand study procedures and complete required questionnaires.
Exclusion criteria
* Revision TKR surgeries. * Early postoperative complications (e.g., wound healing disorders, deep infections, thrombosis). * Severe comorbidities (e.g., heart failure NYHA class 3-4, renal insufficiency grade 3-4, chronic lymphedema, dermatological conditions). * Known allergies to Kinesiotaping (KT) or adhesive materials. * Neurological or neuromuscular disorders. * Cognitive impairments (e.g., dementia) affecting compliance.
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pain Level Using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) | From postoperative day 10 to postoperative day 25. | Pain Level Using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS): Pain intensity will be assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale, ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst possible pain). Unit of Measure: NRS score (0-10), where higher scores indicate worse pain. |
| Knee Circumference (Swelling) | From postoperative day 10 to postoperative day 25. | Knee Circumference (Swelling): The circumference of the operated knee will be measured using a standard tape measure at a consistent anatomical location. Unit of Measure: Centimeters. |
| Passive Range of Motion (PROM) | From postoperative day 10 to postoperative day 25. | Passive Range of Motion (PROM): Knee joint mobility (flexion and extension) will be measured using a goniometer. Unit of Measure: Degrees. |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Timed Up and Go Test | From postoperative day 10 to postoperative day 25. | Timed Up and Go Test: Measures the time (in seconds) for a patient to rise from a chair, walk 3 meters, turn, and return to the chair. Unit of Measure: Seconds (lower scores indicate better mobility). |
| Chair Stand Test | From postoperative day 10 to postoperative day 25. | Chair Stand Test: Measures the number of times a patient can rise from a chair and sit down within 30 seconds. Unit of Measure: Count (higher scores indicate better lower limb strength). |
| 10-Meter Walk Test | From postoperative day 10 to postoperative day 25. | 10-Meter Walk Test: Measures the time taken to walk 10 meters at a self-selected pace. Unit of Measure: Seconds (lower scores indicate better walking ability). |
Countries
Germany