Home-based rehabilitation using smart wearable knee exercise device with electrical stimulation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Abstract

Introduction: Rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is critical to patient outcome. Despite its importance; however, hospital-based rehabilitation is limited, with barriers, including distance and cost. With recent technological advancements, wearable devices have actively been used to address these barriers. In this study, we propose a randomized controlled trial protocol investigating the efficacy and feasibility of home-based rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction using a smart wearable device providing electrical stimulation that allows knee exercise. Methods and analysis: This is a protocol proposal for a prospective, single-center, randomized, controlled study. We plan to recruit adults discharged after ACL reconstruction; the recruited subjects will be randomly allocated to 1 of 2 groups, using a computer-generated randomization method: the intervention (n = 20) or control group (n = 20). The intervention group will receive a 6-week home-based rehabilitation program using smart wearable device. The control group will undergo a 6-week self-exercise program as normal. The following outcomes will be assessed at baseline, 2 weeks, and 6 weeks post the 6-week intervention program: quadriceps strength of the affect side as measured by a dynamometer (primary outcome); range of motion; root mean square of quadriceps muscle using surface electromyography; knee function using questionnaire; quality of life; subject's satisfaction score using questionnaire; frequency and duration of exercise; and knee pain. An intention-to-treat analysis will be conducted for the primary outcome. Discussion: This study is a prospective, single-center, randomized, controlled study. This study aims to research the feasibility and efficacy of a 6-week, structured home-based rehabilitation program for patients after ACL reconstruction using a smart wearable device. The findings of this study will help to establish a home-based rehabilitation program to better recovery in patients with ACL reconstruction. Trial registration number: This protocol was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov, under the number NCT04079205.

Cost-Effectiveness of Treatments for Musculoskeletal Conditions Offered by Physiotherapists: A Systematic Review of Trial-Based Evaluations

“…Of our 39 articles dealing with spine-related conditions four address the back in general [ 17 , 18 , 71 , 84 ], 25 deal with the low back [ 14 – 16 , 21 , 26 – 29 , 32 , 38 , 39 , 43 , 45 , 46 , 50 , 55 , 57 , 59 , 72 , 73 , 77 , 83 , 87 , 93 , 95 ], six with the neck [ 24 , 62 – 64 , 68 , 94 ] and four include mixed patients [ 34 , 67 , 81 , 82 ] (Tables 1 , 2 ).…”

“…The 25 articles on low back pain were built on 24 clinical trials [ 14 – 16 , 21 , 26 – 29 , 32 , 38 , 39 , 43 , 45 , 46 , 50 , 55 , 57 , 59 , 72 , 73 , 77 , 83 , 87 , 93 , 95 ]. Niemistö et al .…”

A novel home-based rehabilitative knee brace system is a viable option for postoperative rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a report of 15 cases

“…Telerehabilitation is developing, especially during the COVID-19 outbreak [ 13 ]. The main treatment goal of postoperative rehabilitation after knee surgery is restoring the range of motion and muscle strength of the knee joint [ 10 ]. To achieve better treatment outcomes, newly developed rehabilitation techniques focus more on improving patient motivation and providing more objective monitoring with better feedbacks to patients [ 3 , 10 ].…”

“…The main treatment goal of postoperative rehabilitation after knee surgery is restoring the range of motion and muscle strength of the knee joint [ 10 ]. To achieve better treatment outcomes, newly developed rehabilitation techniques focus more on improving patient motivation and providing more objective monitoring with better feedbacks to patients [ 3 , 10 ]. In response to the aforementioned purposes, Kim et al proposed a study protocol that aimed to evaluate the treatment effects of rehabilitation using their wearable device which can measure the range of motion and strength of the knee joint [ 10 ].…”

“…To achieve better treatment outcomes, newly developed rehabilitation techniques focus more on improving patient motivation and providing more objective monitoring with better feedbacks to patients [ 3 , 10 ]. In response to the aforementioned purposes, Kim et al proposed a study protocol that aimed to evaluate the treatment effects of rehabilitation using their wearable device which can measure the range of motion and strength of the knee joint [ 10 ]. In the current study, we introduced another novel home-based rehabilitation system, called KNEESUP Compact system, to patients undergoing ACL reconstruction.…”