A Targeted Strengthening Program Following Total Hip Replacement.
A Targeted Strengthening Program Following Total Hip Replacement.
Total Hip Replacement (THR) is a common surgical procedure performed in people with hip
 osteoarthritis and appears to be effective in relieving pain and improving function. However
 significant wasting and weakness of the hip and knee muscles persists post-operatively.
 Although relief of pain and improvement of function are important outcomes following THR,
 weakness of the hip and knee muscles reduces a person's ability to manage stairs, slopes,
 public transport and results in persistent gait abnormalities. Since lower limb weakness is
 one of the risk factors for falls, it is important that patients undergo a strengthening
 program post-operatively. The hypothesis is that lower limb strength and function will be
 better in patients who undergo a strengthening program post-operatively than in those who
 have usual care.
Total Hip Replacement (THR) is a common surgical procedure performed in people with hip
 osteoarthritis and appears to be effective in relieving pain and improving function. However
 significant quadriceps atrophy and weakness persist post-operatively. Although relief of pain
 and improvement of function are important outcomes following THR, weakness of the hip and
 knee muscles reduces a person's ability to manage stairs, slopes, public transport and
 results in persistent gait abnormalities. Since lower limb weakness is one of the risk
 factors for falls, it is important that this is appropriately addressed.

 The study examines the effect of an eight-week task-specific strengthening program on lower
 limb function in patients following THR in a randomized controlled trial. The experimental
 program is being conducted as a circuit in a gymnasium environment. Changes on specific
 measures of physical function of patients in the Experimental Group will be compared with
 those of patients in a Control Group who will continue with the standard care program
 provided at Austin Health.

 Outcome measures include:lower limb muscle strength using a step test, pain, stiffness, and
 function as reported on the WOMAC questionnaire, quality of life using the AQoL
 questionnaire, the Timed Up-and-Go test. Walking tests will also be conducted. These include:

 1. Walking pattern, recorded on an instrumented mat

 2. Walking endurance measured by the 6-minute walk test.

 3. Analysis of hip joint torques using 3-D motion analysis.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  primary uncomplicated total hip joint replacement 6-8 weeks prior to enrolment.

 -  able to walk 45m independently with or without walking aid.

 -  able to comprehend instructions

 -  prior joint replacement on the other side at least 12 months previously

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  unable to fully weight-bear on affected limb

 -  pre-existing neurological or orthopaedic condition affecting gait

 -  revision surgery

 -  post-operative complications, e.g. wound infection

 -  uncontrolled systemic disease