FitJoints: Getting Fit for Hip and Knee Replacement

Launched by MCMASTER UNIVERSITY · Oct 20, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The FitJoints clinical trial is exploring a new program designed to help older adults prepare for hip or knee replacement surgery. Many people waiting for these surgeries have become frail during the COVID-19 pandemic, which can make recovery more difficult. This study aims to see if a special program that includes exercise, nutrition advice, and medication reviews can improve recovery and overall quality of life after surgery. The trial will involve participants aged 60 and older who are either frail or pre-frail and are scheduled for elective hip or knee replacements within the next 4 to 15 months.

If you qualify for this study, you will be randomly assigned to either the new program or to usual care while you wait for your surgery. The FitJoints program can be done in person or online, making it flexible and accessible. Participants can expect to work with a physiotherapist on exercise, receive dietary guidance to improve nutrition, and have their medications reviewed. This trial is taking place at several sites in Canada and is currently recruiting participants. It's a great opportunity to potentially enhance your health before surgery and improve your recovery experience.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Pre-frail (score of 1 or 2) or frail (score of 3-5)
• • ≥ 60 years old
• • Receiving elective unilateral total hip or knee replacement
• • Waiting time for surgery is estimated to be between 4 to 15 months
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Renal disorder
• • A neuromuscular disorder
• • Active cancer
• • Inflammatory arthritis
• • Unable to speak or understand English and has no caregiver for translation
• • Participating in another trial that involves protein supplementation
• • Participating in an exercise program