Comparative Effectiveness of an Activity-Specific Monitoring Device (StepRite) on Short Term Outcomes in Adults After Total Knee Arthroplasty

Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is a procedure commonly used in severe degeneration of the knee joint due to osteoarthritis. With an increasing number of TKA's performed in a population that is aging during a time where the amount of healthcare dollars allotted to rehabilitation is declining, there is a need to develop remote monitoring of rehabilitation and to engage and optimize self-management of recovery.

Current management of TKA recovery is typically performed in the out-patient setting and is highly protocol driven. A typical case might be seen by the physical therapist 2-3x/week for 8-10 weeks to perform specific exercises and to monitor progress (i.e. compliance with range of motion (ROM) and strengthening exercises). One recent study suggested that variation in patients' independent exercise and activity after arthroplasty surgery may contribute to variable functional gains.

Telerehabilitation is an emerging method of delivering healthcare. It is likely to become more prevalent as technology improves and funding for clinic appointments diminishes. Recent studies have shown that telerehabilitation can be as effective as conventional treatment, as is well tolerated by both patients and healthcare professionals.

The StepRite system developed by MedHab (http://www.medhab.com/) allows the physical therapist to monitor physical activity and exercise remotely, thereby reducing the need for frequent out-patient visits. A thin insole placed inside the shoe measures foot contact pressure and a small device attached to the shoe measures acceleration. This information is translated into quantitative feedback about exercise compliance and performance measures comparing the surgical side with the non-surgical side. Real time feedback during exercise and weight-bearing activities is provided to the patient, and a HIPAA secured user interface website also displays this information in an online dashboard for both physical therapists and the physician.

Given the potential for improving patient engagement with rehabilitation, this study proposes a treatment model which includes monitoring activity outside of the clinic using the StepRite device and using a combination of outpatient appointments and remote consultations with therapists.