z-logo
open-access-imgOpen Access
The STAK tool: evaluation of a new device to treat arthrofibrosis and poor range of movement following total knee arthroplasty and major knee surgery
Author(s) -
Sara K. Aspinall,
Patrick C. Wheeler,
S. Godsiff,
Sue Hignett,
Dyt Fong
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
bone and joint open
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2633-1462
DOI - 10.1302/2633-1462.18.bjo-2020-0096
Subject(s) - arthrofibrosis , womac , medicine , physical therapy , osteoarthritis , knee joint , oxford knee score , range of motion , psychological intervention , total knee arthroplasty , surgery , alternative medicine , nursing , pathology
Aims This study aims to evaluate a new home medical stretching device called the Self Treatment Assisted Knee (STAK) tool to treat knee arthrofibrosis.Methods 35 patients post-major knee surgery with arthrofibrosis and mean range of movement (ROM) of 68° were recruited. Both the STAK intervention and control group received standard physiotherapy for eight weeks, with the intervention group additionally using the STAK at home. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Oxford Knee Scores (OKS) were collected at all timepoints. An acceptability and home exercise questionnaire capturing adherence was recorded after each of the interventions.Results Compared to the control group, the STAK intervention group made significant gains in mean ROM (30° versus 8°, p < 0.0005), WOMAC (19 points versus 3, p < 0.0005), and OKS (8 points versus 3, p < 0.0005). The improvements in the STAK group were maintained at long-term follow-up. No patients suffered any complications relating to the STAK, and 96% of patients found the STAK tool ‘perfectly acceptable’.Conclusion The STAK tool is effective in increasing ROM and reducing pain and stiffness. Patients find it acceptable and adherence to treatment was high. This study indicates that the STAK tool would be of benefit in clinical practice and may offer a new, cost-effective treatment for arthrofibrosis. Cite this article: Bone Joint Open 2020;1-8:465–473.

The content you want is available to Zendy users.

Already have an account? Click here to sign in.
Having issues? You can contact us here