Faster rehabilitation after total knee replacement
Official title: Effectiveness of Accelerated Rehabilitation on Knee Joint Function and Quality of Life in Individuals With Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Double Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by Mahidol University · NCT07319546 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial will test whether a faster rehabilitation program helps people aged 50–80 recover better and have better quality of life after their first unilateral total knee replacement.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 50 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 32 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Mahidol University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Dali, Yunnan) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 1, 2025 |
| Main results expected | December 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | January 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07319546 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 50–80 with end-stage knee osteoarthritis scheduled for a first-time unilateral total knee replacement who can follow a structured rehabilitation program and do not have severe comorbidities.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients undergoing revision knee replacement or those with active joint infection, inflammatory arthritis, severe neurological disorders, advanced cardiovascular disease, or severe osteoporosis are unlikely to be eligible and are less likely to benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Researchers will randomize people aged 50–80 scheduled for primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty in Dali, Yunnan to either an accelerated exercise program or a conventional routine exercise program. The trial is double-blind and compares knee joint function measured by the KOOS and health-related quality of life measured by the SF-36 over a six-month follow-up. Key exclusions include revision TKA, joint infection, cancer, inflammatory arthritis, major neurological disorders, severe osteoporosis, and advanced cardiovascular disease. Outcomes will determine whether the accelerated protocol yields faster or greater improvements in function and quality of life compared with usual care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the accelerated program could speed recovery, improve knee function, and raise quality of life after knee replacement.
How similar studies have gone: Prior fast-track and accelerated rehabilitation programs after TKA have shown improved early recovery and shorter hospital stays in several studies, though long-term functional benefits are variable.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients diagnosed with end-stage knee OA necessitating primary unilateral TKA. Exclusion Criteria: * History of joint infections, cancer, or inflammatory arthritis. * End-stage OA from rheumatoid or septic arthritis. * Individuals with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, - Parkinson's disease, stroke. * Individuals who are unable to follow a structured rehabilitation protocol. * Previous history of knee surgeries (other than arthroscopy). * Severe comorbidities that would hinder participation (e.g., advanced cardiovascular diseases). * Individuals who have severe osteoporosis.
Where it's running
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Hospital
Dali, Yunnan, China Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Liying Yang — West Yunnan University of Applied Sciences, Yunnan province
- Study coordinator: Liying Yang, PT, M.Sc.
- Email: liying.yan@student.mahidol.ac.th
- Phone: +86 18787638700
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.