Effects of a Late Phase Exercise Program Following Total Hip Arthroplasty

Effects of a Late Phase Education and Exercise Program Following Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Pilot Project

A group of orthopedic physiotherapists have developed a late phase program to educate and instruct total hip replacement patients in progressive exercises appropriate for their level of recovery. The components of this program include an educational presentation, individual assessment and exercise prescription. The investigators' intent is to pilot the program using a sample of patients. The objective of this pilot project:

To examine the effects of the late phase education session and home-based exercise program in restoring hip muscle strength, gait and function

Inclusion Criteria:

• unilateral primary total hip arthroplasty (THA)
• 8-12 weeks post THA
• over the age of 18
• able to walk 15m without a walking aid
• able to participate in an exercise program without physical assistance
• available for follow up as per the study protocol
• able to read and understand English and follow verbal and visual instructions

Exclusion Criteria:

• medically unstable
• have central or peripheral nervous system deficits
• have an underlying terminal disease (cancer)
• have suspicion of infection following joint replacement