The Impact of Two Different Physical Therapy Programs in the Rehabilitation of Patients Undergoing Anterior Approach Hip Replacement Surgery

The Impact of Two Different Physical Therapy Programs in the Rehabilitation of Patients Undergoing Anterior Approach Hip Replacement Surgery

This study will look to determine two different types of physical therapy regimens in patients who undergo anterior total hip replacement. We will compare the results of two groups. The first group, the "Formal Physical Therapy" group, will undergo standard physical therapy following their surgery. They will see a physical therapist in a physical therapy office after their surgery. Here, the therapist will work with the patient to strengthen muscles and improve their walking. The second group, the "Self-directed Physical Therapy" group, will undergo physical therapy in the comfort of their own home using common household items (chairs, steps, etc). These patients will be given a list of exercises and stretches to perform on their own. It is our goal to prove that formal physical therapy is not needed after anterior hip replacements.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged between 18 and 80 years of age
• Patients undergoing primary anterior total hip arthroplasty for the diagnosis of osteoarthritis
• Patients with no previous invasive hip surgery (such as a previous hip replacement)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Non-English speaking persons will be excluded in our study.
• Patients with a recent history (<1 year) of heart attack, stroke, and lung clots.
• Previous invasive surgery on the hip undergoing replacement
• Patients with dementia, Parkinson's, or other neurological disorders
• Non-ambulatory patients
• Patients with impaired ability to consent, whether because of mental illness or otherwise
• Patients being discharged to a rehabilitation center
• Patients that experience intra-operative complications