Psychosocial predictors of prolonged pain and disability following total knee arthroplasty

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting approximately 3 million people in Canada. Patients with severe symptomatic OA of the knee may be considered candidates for knee replacement surgery (Total Knee Arthroplasty; TKA). Although TKA yields significant benefit, it appears that 13 ¿ 30% of patients will follow a problematic course of recovery characterized by prolonged and intense pain, mobility restriction, and disability. Persistent pain symptoms following TKA can contribute to discontinuation of life role activities, progressive decline toward a sedentary lifestyle, and social isolation. The primary purpose of the proposed research is to assess whether certain psychological variables might play a role in the development of problematic outcomes following TKA. If individuals at risk for post-surgical pain and disability can be identified before the pain problem becomes chronic, individuals¿ suffering might be prevented or minimized to a significant degree. The proposed research holds promise of providing a research foundation for the development of interventions aimed at improving health outcomes following TKA. The proposed research is important both for improving both quality of life of patients and maximizing the overall cost-effectiveness of TKA.