Determination of factors affecting the level of kinesiophobia in patients undergoing total knee replacement surgery

The study was conducted descriptively to determine the factors affecting the level of kinesiophobia in patients undergoing total knee replacement surgery. The sample consisted of 283 patients. Data were collected face-to-face by the researcher using the Descriptive Characteristics Form, Causes of Kinesiophobia Scale, Visual Analog Scale, and Causes of Kinesiophobia Form. The data obtained in the study were analyzed using the IBM SPSS Version 22.0 statistical software program. Among the participants, 26.9% were between the ages of 66 and 70, 86.6% were female, 32.9% were classified as class II obese, and 51.6% were primary school graduates. A total of 62.2% of the patients had comorbidities, 89.4% were independent in meeting their physical needs, and 56.9% had complaints that started 1–5 years prior. The mean postoperative anxiety score was 39.720±31.549. The mean total kinesiophobia score was 2.720±0.531, while the mean scores for the biological and psychological subdimensions were 2.680±0.617 and 2.759±0.575, respectively. The primary causes of kinesiophobia included fear of pain (89.0%), fear of falling (46.6%), and fatigue (46.3%). Body mass index, education level, presence of comorbidities, preoperative physical independence, duration of complaints, and postoperative anxiety level were identified as factors explaining the variation in kinesiophobia levels. According to the results of the multiple regression analysis, the independent variables included in the model explained 33.1% of the variation in total kinesiophobia level. It was determined that dizziness, fear of falling, and fear of developing an infection were factors contributing to increased levels of kinesiophobia. Kinesiophobia is an issue that requires a multidisciplinary approach, considering both physical rehabilitation and psychological factors. The research findings indicate that kinesiophobia in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty is influenced not only by physical but also by psychological factors. Accordingly, it is necessary to develop multidisciplinary and individualized rehabilitation approaches based on the specific needs of the patients for effective management of kinesiophobia. Keywords: Fear of movement, Kinesiophobia, Surgical nursing, Total knee replacement