Abstract
Recently, a strong emphasis has been placed on establishing rehabilitation protocols after primary total
hip and knee arthroplasty in an attempt to shorten, improve, and standardize the postoperative period
of recovery. Less invasive surgical techniques, patient demands, and the pressure of insurance
regulations have forced postoperative rehabilitation to be placed on an expedited scale. With these
concerns in mind, we introduce a pre- and postarthroplasty program involving the Pilates method.
Modified exercises have been developed to account for the postoperative precautions and needs of
total hip and knee arthroplasty patients. A patient-driven interest in the use of Pilates for postoperative
rehabilitation has led to the development of our programs following total hip or knee arthroplasty. In
reviewing our early observations of a small series of patients, it appears this technique can be utilized
without early complications; however, further studies are necessary to confirm its utility and safety.
Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete
description of levels of evidence.
