The prehabilitation program would implement trained peer coaches who previously underwent a knee replacement to counsel patients before the procedure.
Optimizing “muscle strength, physical condition and mental preparation before surgery” can lead to improved outcomes in knee replacements, according to Iris Navarro-Millan, MD, rheumatologist and principal investigator in the HSS study.
Dr. Navarro-Millan based the study on social cognitive theory, which suggests that “self-efficacy, peer or social support, sociocultural factors and expectations influence goals and outcomes.”
The study found that many patients weren’t sure about the best way to prepare for a knee replacement and they appreciated advice from other patients and peer coaches about preparation and recovery.
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