Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Restoration of Function Post THA – A Narrative Review

Abstract

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is the surgery commonly performed to relieve pain & improve functions. Joint arthroplasty is now a mainstay for all the clients who are resistant to conservative remedies. According to the literature more than 90% of the patients report satisfaction post surgery as it has helped them return to their activities within 3-6 months. However a number of studies report strength deficits in the late post operative period raising a question on the intensity sufficiency of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation targets in rehabilitation phase. This review was undertaken to study effects of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation on function on follow-up. Various search engine/databases were searched with appropriate key words. Total numbers of studies identified from the databases were 39. Studies showed post operative weakness had several causes, physiotherapy & rehabilitation was important and advised in all in the initial post –op phase but few studied and analyzed its late effects. Conclusion: Review suggests that Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation are important & intense supervised rehabilitation targeting hip abductors in weight bearing & / or non weight bearing are of tremendous value as it improves strength, functions & gait. The benefits are said to be achievable after adequate repetition & practice. Thus the patient needs to follow up and remain on regular program for maintenance and educated for the same.