Effects of Mat Pilates Exercise on Lower Extremity Function, Postural Balance, and Walking in the Older Women with Total Knee Arthroplasty

Objective: The rehabilitation protocols for functional recovery have been emphasized after total knee arthroplasty, and Pilates is in the spotlight as a safe and easily modified exercise method. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of mat Pilates exercise on lower extremity function, postural balance, and walking in the individuals with total knee arthroplasty. Design: One group pretest-posttest design. Methods: Eighteen older women with unilateral total knee arthroplasty was recruited in the study. The subjects were evaluated on lower extremity function, postural balance, and walking before and after mat Pilates exercise. All subject performed one hour mat Pilates exercise, 3 times a week for 8 weeks. Mat Pilates exercises were focused on core stability and lower extremity strengthening and, more dynamic movements were added to increase the difficulty of movements every two weeks. The lower extremity function was measured using the Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), knee joint position sense, and five times sit-to-stand test. Postural balance was assessed by single leg stance test, functional reach test, and timed up and go test. Walking was measured by OptoGait system to temporospatial parameter. Results: The lower extremity function, postural balance, and walking were significantly improved after mat Pilates exercise, except for five times sit-to-stand test (p<0.05). Conclusions: This study demonstrated that the mat Pilates exercise was a useful method to improve lower extremity function, postural balance, and walking in the older women with unilateral total knee arthroplasty.