Aota Guidelines for Total Knee Replacement Rehabilitation

AOTA (American Occupational Therapy Association) is one of the oldest and most respected sources for patients on everything from pediatrics to gerontology. Established in 1917, AOTA has an excellent reputation in the field of occupational therapy. They have medical brochures with "how to" guidelines on a wide variety of topics, and their literature is often found in doctors' offices. They have established a set of guidelines and precautions to assist patients who are recovering from total knee replacement surgery.

AOTA

• AOTA (American Occupational Therapy Association) was founded in 1917 to represent the interests and concerns of occupational therapy practitioners and students, while improving the quality of O.T. services. The current AOTA worldwide membership consists of around 36,000 occupational therapists, assistants and students.

  The goal of AOTA is to advance the quality availability, use and support of occupational therapy. This is done through setting quality standards, advocacy, education, and research on behalf of its members and the public. AOTA believes that occupational therapy as the best career for promoting the health, productivity, and quality of life of people- through the therapeutic application of occupation. Their resources cover a complete range of life activities, including recovering from total knee replacement surgery.

Guidelines

• The AOTA guidelines for recovering from total knee replacement surgery features "step-by-step illustrations demonstrate the proper techniques for using a walker, climbing stairs, using the toilet, bathing, dressing, housekeeping, bed positioning, and getting in and out of a car. Includes information on how to use assistive devices and provides general safety tips and precautions for recovery." This is according to their publication, "After Your Knee Surgery: A Guide to Daily Activities" (see References). While buying their publication is the only way to view the illustrations, many major medical centers, such as the Mayo Clinic, have a relationship with AOTA, and their guidelines and doctors fall in line with AOTA practices.

Essential Steps

• The basic guidelines to rehab from total knee replacement surgery are to prepare before surgery for recovery; undergo vigorous and complete physical therapy, beginning immediately post-op and continuing until released by the medical professional as fully rehabilitated; and the prevention of accidents and re-injury through the use of moderate adaptations to movement, environment, and attitude for the remainder of the patient's life.

  By taking simple steps like avoiding climbing stairs for the first month after surgery, or knowing how to get in and out of a car after recovery to avoid unnecessary bending or pain, the patient can greatly improve and maintain quality of life.