Table 3. Second step postoperative rehabilitation in OA.

Schematic representation of rehabilitation activities that the patients, once discharged from hospital, should keep on at home.

PHASE	TYPE OF ACTIVITY	EFFECTS
SECOND STEP	STRETCHING EXERCISES	Increases gradually the amount of stress applied to the treated joint, provides a stimulus for healing to cartilage tissues without causing damage and has positive effects for both pain and physical function.
	RESISTANCE EXERCISE	Decreases pain, increases physical function and reduces disability.
	AEROBIC EXERCISE	Has beneficial effects on joint mobility and pain, and improves functional status and respiratory capacity.
	NUTRITIONAL EDUCATION	Improves metabolic homeostasis of cartilage tissue and determines protection against chronicity of the disease.