Study Summary

60 patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis (KOA) undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were randomized to receive self-directed rehabilitation using a wearable motion tracker with smartphone feedback or conventional self-directed rehabilitation with intermittent physiotherapist supervision. The primary outcome of interest was change in the Korean version of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score. Secondary outcomes included Euro-Qol five-dimension five-level (EQ-5D-5L), Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscales, knee range of motion (ROM), gait speed, and gait ROM. Outcomes were assessed preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 weeks postoperatively. Overall, the results of the study revealed significantly greater improvements in WOMAC stiffness and function, KOOS pain and activities of daily living, and EQ-5D-5L scores in the wearable motion tracker group. These findings suggest that wearable motion tracker–supported rehabilitation improves early postoperative pain, stiffness, and functional recovery compared with conventional self-directed rehabilitation.