Total knee replacement (TKR) is used widely to alleviate pain and improve function for people with advanced knee osteoarthritis. Almost 800,000 TKRs are performed annually in the U.S., and most individuals report satisfaction with the procedure and improvements in pain and function. However, most TKR recipients do not increase their physical activity levels post-surgery, even as pain and function improve.

As greater physical activity can lead to further decreases in pain, lower risk of common chronic diseases, and an improvement in quality of life, it is critical to find ways to help TKR recipients become more active post-surgery. In KArAT (Knee Arthroplasty Activity Trial), we will assess whether personalized guidance from a health coach coupled with financial rewards can effectively increase physical activity post-TKR.

KArAT is led by Elena Losina, Ph.D., MSc, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, alongside a team of investigators from Mass General Brigham, Northwestern University, the University at Buffalo, and the University of Kansas. The study is funded by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Enrollment began during Spring 2023.

For further information, please see our NIH grant abstract.