DefinePK

Abstract

Background: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common surgical intervention for patients with end-stage osteoarthritis to alleviate pain and restore knee function. As the demand for TKA rises globally, effective postoperative rehabilitation is crucial to improve strength, mobility, and quality of life. Physical therapy plays a central role in recovery, yet physical therapists' awareness of rehabilitation protocols may vary. This study aims to assess the knowledge and awareness of physical therapists in Karachi regarding rehabilitation protocols following TKA.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a convenience sampling technique, which involved 102 physical therapists working in hospitals and clinical settings in Karachi. Participants completed a self-designed questionnaire on their awareness of TKA rehabilitation protocols, including specific exercises and interventions. Descriptive statistics, such as frequency and percentage distributions, were used to analyze the data.
Results: The study found that 100% of participants acknowledged the importance of physical therapy for TKA patients and its role in reducing hospital stays and facilitating a quicker return to daily activities. However, knowledge gaps regarding specific rehabilitation exercises were identified. For example, 75.5% of therapists recognized full knee flexion as important, and only 1% identified ankle pumping as a critical exercise. Additionally, 84.3% of participants highlighted muscle weakness, limited range of motion, and slow walking as significant challenges in postoperative rehabilitation.
Conclusion: While physical therapists in Karachi demonstrate awareness of the importance of rehabilitation post-TKA, further education is needed to address gaps in knowledge and improve rehabilitation outcomes. Enhanced public awareness of physiotherapy’s role in recovery is also essential.