In 2023 around 77,000 knee replacements were performed in Australia, with 98 per cent of these surgeries due to knee osteoarthritis.
The number of knee replacements jumped 20 per cent on the previous year, and were more than the combined number of hip and shoulder replacements.
Electing to have knee replacement surgery is not a decision taken lightly. A myriad of things can go wrong and in many cases, surgeons recommend non-surgical management options – such as strengthening muscles supporting the knee – for as long as possible.
Another reason surgeons recommend delaying knee replacement is because artificial joints have a limited lifespan (approximately 15–20 years). Delaying replacement surgery means younger patients may be able to avoid revision surgery to replace the worn parts.
Regardless of whether knee replacement surgery comes sooner or later, its success is strongly influenced by events before and after surgery.
‘Patients with better strength, mobility and functional capacity tend to recover faster, experience fewer complications and regain independence sooner,’ said Physiotherapist and getback Clinical Director, Geoffrey Mackay.
‘Modern rehabilitation and strength training technology, such as the getback knee extension and flexion devices, makes rehabilitation safer, more controlled and completely measurable.’
‘We support patients in both pre-operative preparation and post-operative recovery with a structured, evidence-based knee stabilisation program.’
Scientific evidence indicates that patients who enter the operating room with stronger quadriceps, better mobility and improved neuro-muscular control have significantly better outcomes.
Research by Topp et al. (2009) demonstrated that patients who complete a pre-habilitation program can get up faster, walk more comfortably and rely less on walking aids in the early post-operative phase, while Petterson et al. (2011) found that reduced quadriceps mass before surgery is linked to slower recovery and poorer functional outcomes.
How getback supports pre- and rehabilitation
getback™ exercise devices allow therapists to tailor strength and mobility training precisely to a patient’s physical capacity. Training loads can be adjusted progressively and safely and range of motion is limited to pain-free levels.
‘Strength can be measured accurately and progress is visualised in clear graphs, which increase both patient motivation and clinical accuracy,’ Mackay said.
‘During the first weeks after a knee replacement, the balance between rest and controlled loading is essential. Insufficient loading can slow progress, while excessive loading may increase swelling and pain.’
‘The getback program and technology provides a safe environment in which strength and mobility training can be accurately guided.’
Scientific evidence also supports the importance of post-operative rehabilitation for successful outcomes. Lange et al. (2012) found that progressive resistance training between weeks two and six significantly improves walking ability, quadriceps strength and functional independence.
More specifically, Bade et al. (2011) showed that rehabilitation programs that include objective measures such as strength, mobility and symmetry lead to superior outcomes compared to traditional, non-measured therapy.
Safety first
A unique aspect of the getback devices is their bio-mechanical design which adjusts exercise resistance to match muscle capacity throughout the total range of motion.
Mackay said the getback knee devices allow therapists to set exact limits for range of motion, ensuring the patient moves only within safe guidelines.
‘The system measures every repetition, provides consistent, reproducible strength data and gradually increases resistance and range of motion based on patient performance,’ he said.
Knee replacements can offers older Australians a new start, but the quality of outcome depends a lot on preparation and guided recovery. Combining evidence-based exercise therapy with the precision and safety of the getback system provides a rehabilitation process that is measurable, personalised, and highly effective.
The getback knee program helps patients regain strength faster, move with more confidence and return to activity sooner.
