Physical ActIvity after knee or hip Replacement

Background Osteoarthritis (OA) is among the most prevalent age-related chronic conditions and musculoskeletal conditions. Total hip and knee replacements (THR, TKR) are the most commonly performed elective surgeries in the United States and Europe for the relief of pain associated with OA. Physical activity (PA) is determinant to promote an active lifestyle to prevent or mitigate disability due to THR/TKR. It is well known that changing human behavior, such as increasing (PA), is very challenging. Objectives The identification of a physical activity program suitable for people after THR/TKR; the identification of factors that influence adherence to the proposed PAIR exercise protocol; the implementation of educational programs and analyze clinicians’, professional exercise trainers’, and subjects’ modifications of attitude towards regular exercising; Raising awareness of stakeholders and decision-makers about the promotion of physical and sport activity for subjects who have undergone THR/TKR. Implementation All the objectives of the study were completed. The literature analysis was given by the revisions. The attitude towards the physical activity of clinicians and patients was retrieved by the questionnaires. The clinical and functional outcomes as well as strength and mobility measures were collected through the pilot study. Achievements Two exercise programs for people with THR and TKR were implemented. Three systematic reviews to collect the current knowledge of the physical activity and THR/TKR were performed. Two questionnaires to assess the attitude toward the physical activity of patients and clinicians were developed and administered. The outcomes of PAIR were discussed and presented through national and international conferences and multiplayer events.