Neuromuscular electrical stimulation for pre- and post-knee replacement surgery: a qualitative study

Participants reported benefits, including improved pain management and enhanced muscle activation, particularly when exercise was not feasible. Barriers included limited familiarity, device complexity and usability, cost, availability, and integration challenges within routine care. Our findings highlight the need for improved device design, better clinical training, and greater awareness.

User-informed development may improve alignment with clinical needs and patient preferences in knee rehabilitation. These insights suggest that addressing educational gaps and simplifying device interfaces could enhance clinician confidence and patient engagement. Wider implementation may improve recovery experiences and functional outcomes following knee replacement surgery while supporting more equitable and efficient healthcare by enabling home-based rehabilitation.</p> <p>Knee replacement surgery can lower pain and help people move more easily.

Many people have pain, weakness, and difficulty staying active after surgery. This can make rehabilitation exercises hard to do. One way to help recovery is through a device that uses gentle electrical pulses to help the muscles work.

This may be helpful for people who have trouble exercising because of pain or stiffness in their knees. In this study, we spoke with people with knee arthritis and healthcare professionals. We asked them about their views of using this technology before and after knee replacement surgery.

People felt it could help lower pain and keep muscles active when regular exercise was hard. They also shared some possible issues. Some of these problems included not knowing much about the technology, difficulty using the products, cost, and problems accessing it.

The study suggested some changes that could make people more confident in using these devices. They should be simpler to use. Healthcare professionals should have more training.

We should share information with patients to help them learn about this technology. Home-based treatment options may make recovery easier and more convenient after knee replacement surgery. They could also help more people recover better and faster.</p>