New results from TRIA Orthopedics show that hundreds of patients with knee arthritis are finding a successful alternative to knee replacement surgery. Through a first-of-its-kind program that combines movement, education and personalized support, participants are improving their mobility, reducing costs and, in many cases, avoiding surgery altogether.

Data from patients over the last two years shows 69% of participants saw a significant improvement in knee function with 40% seeing function improved to a level on par with knee replacement patients. Knee replacement surgeries also dropped by 40% when comparing a cohort of 100 participants to a matched cohort of non-participants.

“Many patients with knee arthritis think they should avoid activity, but that’s the worst thing,” said Julie Switzer, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at TRIA and Medical Director of the TRIA Knee Arthritis Program. “Staying active often decreases pain and boosts overall wellness, in addition to helping memory, improving heart health and preventing falls and injuries.”

Better function, fewer surgeries and lower costs

While participants experienced an average pain reduction of 34%, the clinical outcomes are just part of the program’s impact. Feedback from participants consistently highlights a positive shift in mindset from fear and avoidance to confidence and proactive self-management.

“A grandfather with a sore knee who turns down a fishing date with his grandchild because he’s worried he will further injure his knee by participating, that’s the person whose life we can change,” Dr. Switzer said. “We want to help our patients get out there to do the things they want to do.”

The TRIA Knee Arthritis Program begins with a patient coordinator assessing pain and goals, followed by a clinic evaluation with a physical therapist and orthopedic physician. Afterward, a personalized fitness plan is created, which may include group exercise, physical therapy, wellness coaching and ongoing check-ins to support progress.

On average, the TRIA Knee Arthritis Program reduces total cost of care by 20% compared to standard care for knee arthritis, which is driven largely by fewer injections and a lower rate of eventual knee replacement surgery.

"We’re making sure every patient gets the right care for their situation," says Dr. Switzer. "Many respond so well to the program they see the same improvement in function patients typically see from surgery. We support surgery if it’s what’s best for the patient, but for those who don't need it, we're giving them a real alternative.”

On average, roughly 1 in 3 patients who would’ve needed a knee replacement avoid surgery while still experiencing the same improvement in function.

Interested patients can learn more about the program or enroll by calling 952-993-2245.