A free exercise and social programme for individuals who have recently had a hip or knee joint replacement is being trialled at Littledown this month.
The new Joint Steps initiative is being launched by registered charity and social enterprise BH Live in association with BU's Orthopaedic Research Institute to help people to improve mobility and confidence after surgery.
Every month more than 100 hip and knee joint replacement surgeries are carried out across the BCP region. After surgery, walking in a supportive group can help to improve both physical and mental wellbeing, improve balance and general mobility, as well as being a fun and social activity.
If successful, it is hoped the programme could be extended and delivered as one of BH Live’s regular health and wellbeing programmes which support individuals with regular exercise while living with long-term health conditions or illnesses.
Weekly walking sessions will span over six weeks. They will be led by a specially trained BH Live Active instructor and attended by Tom Wainwright, Professor of Orthopaedics at BU.
Sessions will take place outdoors and will include 30-45 minutes of gentle walking and incorporate elements to improve participants’ strength and mobility.
Professor Wainwright said, "As a physiotherapist and researcher in orthopaedics, I’ve seen firsthand how regular physical activity and group-based exercise can improve recovery after joint replacement surgery. Walking groups like this can provide a safe and supportive environment to build confidence and mobility which are key factors in long-term recovery. This is a great opportunity to stay active and connect with others on a similar journey."
The first session will take place Tuesday 22 April 2025 at 2:30pm in Littledown’s parkland. Sessions are open to anyone recovering from recent hip or knee replacement surgeries who is at least eight weeks post-operation and looking to progress their recovery and confidence when walking.
For more information and to register interest, people can get in touch with [email protected].
