| In the USA more than 200,000 total joint replacements (TJR) or arthroplasty (TJA) are performed annually. Because people live longer due to advances in medicine and newer joint replacements designs last longer, the goal of TJA has expanded to include expectations of returning to an active life style. There is considerable research dealing with post-operative activities for total hip arthroplasty (THA), whereas studies for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are somewhat scarce. Research shows that participation in sports is possible after TJA; that high impact activities are ill advised; and that low impact activity such as golf, swimming, walking, and cycling are recommended.; Aimed at both knee rehabilitation and strength training post TKA, the purpose of this research is to develop an aquatic program that includes stretching, resistance and aerobic components. An application of this program is illustrated in a case study. The range of motion (ROM) in both knees attained the manufacturer's design and the surgeons' expectations—120°.; Four major results highlight the successful rehabilitation in the case study. First proper hiking boots make walking enjoyable. Next, stretching muscles by strategic use of buoyancy collars was found to be beneficial in increasing the range of motion (ROM). More important is the result realized from walking backwards. The low-stress nature of the movement gives rise to more exercise before fatigue. Finally, the active isolation stretch (AIS) of the quadriceps was felt to be a major factor in achieving the desired range of motion (ROM). |
