Balance and Leg Function After Hip Replacement

Effect of Task-Specific Exercise on Balance and Leg Function in Patients After Total Hip Replacement

Task-oriented leg exercise are commonly used after joint surgeries in various hip pathologies. Based on this theory, it was hypothesized that task-oriented exercise without conventional physiotherapy can have better result in recovery of balance and leg function than with a conventional post-hip physiotherapy program after hip replacement surgery. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of task-oriented exercise on balance and leg function after total hip replacement.

Study included 40 subjects. All subjects were randomly divided into control and intervention groups. VAS scale was used to assess the pain, hip range of motion were measured using a goniometer, strength of the muscles was assessed on the Oxford 5 point scale, leg function was evaluated with modified Harris hip scale, Abili balance analyzer was used to assess static balance and Berg balance scale was used to measure dynamic balance. Intervention duration was 18 days.

Inclusion Criteria:

• BMI < 40;
• Hip coxarthrosis;
• Hip total replacement;
• Posterior incision;
• Surgery performed no more than 1 week ago;
• Ability to comprehend and execute the tasks.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Revision surgery;
• Surgery intervention for other reasons (fracture, arthritis);
• Severe cardiovascular disease;
• Vestibular disorders;
• Vision disorders;
• Proprioception disorders;
• Neurological disorders.