Efficacy of proprioceptive training on the recovery of total joint arthroplasty patients: a meta-analysis

Abstract

Background Optimal balance control is of paramount importance for function recovery after total joint arthroplasty (TJA). The study objective of this meta-analysis was to assess the short- and mid-term effects of proprioceptive and balance training for patients undergoing TJA. Methods Electronic searches were conducted from PubMed, Cochrane library, and Embase databases to identify eligible RCTs through May 2020. Standard mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was applied to calculate pooled effect estimates between proprioceptive and balance training and control group. Main outcomes were self-reported functionality, balance, pain, quality of life, and function (range of motion). Results Seven randomized controlled trials were finally included in this meta-analysis. Pooled results found that balance and proprioceptive trainings have a positive role in improving self-reported functionality at short-term after TJA. Moreover, balance and proprioceptive trainings were associated with an increase of the balance at short- and mid-term after TJA. These results were further confirmed by subgroup analysis between preoperative and postoperative administration of balance and proprioceptive trainings. Conclusion Our meta-analysis suggests that balance and proprioceptive trainings after TJA improved self-reported functionality and balance. These improvements were maintained at mid-terms. More research is needed to confirm balance and proprioceptive trainings for pain and quality of life for TJA.

A scoping review of prehabilitation interventions for arthroplasty patients

“…No studies specifically evaluated the efficacy of balance and proprioceptive exercises. However, a meta-analysis by Zhang and Xiao ( 2020 ) suggested that, in patients’ post-arthroplasty, balance and proprioceptive training after total joint arthroplasty improved self-reported functionality and balance, which were maintained mid-term (Zhang & Xiao 2020 ). In another synthesis, Domínguez-Navarro et al ( 2018 ) concluded that, in clinical terms, balance training was a convenient adjunct to conventional physiotherapy care to improve balance and functionality after a knee replacement (Domínguez-Navarro et al 2018 ).…”