The effects of static progressive stretching combined with joint mobilization on dysfunction after total knee arthroplasty

Abstract

Objective To explore the effect of static progressive stretching combined with joint mobilization on dysfunction after total knee arthroplasty. Methods Fifty-six patients with knee joint dysfunction after total knee arthroplasty were randomly divided into a treatment group and a control group, each of 28. Both groups were treated with joint mobilization, while the treatment group was additionally provided with static progressive stretching for 8 weeks. Before and after the treatment, both groups′ pain and knee function were evaluated using visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, the range of motion and the hospital for special surgery knee score (HSS). Results Before the treatment there were no significant differences between the two groups in any of the measurements. After the treatment, all of the measurements had improved in both groups, on average. Compared with the control group, the treatment group′s average range of motion of the knee and HSS score were significantly better. Conclusion Static progressive stretches combined with joint mobilization can effectively relieve pain, expand the range of motion and improve the function of a knee joint after total knee arthroplasty. Key words: Total knee arthroplasty; Range of motion; Stretching; Joint mobilization