Changes in Postural Stability Following THA for OA

Changes in Postural Stability and Balance Confidence in People After Elective Unilateral Total Hip Arthroplasty for Osteoarthritis: A Prospective Cohort Study

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a common surgery that eases pain, restores functional movement, and improves the overall quality of life in people with severe hip osteoarthritis (OA). Unfortunately, problems with postural stability, commonly known as balance, are still noticed in people even years after the surgery. These postural stability problems typically result in falls. The aim of the proposed study is to investigate how THA surgery affects a person's overall quality of life, both physically and psychologically, in terms of postural stability and balance confidence (self-efficacy) within the first three months after THA for osteoarthritis. This prospective cohort study will focus on people over 60 years old.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the changes in postural stability and balance confidence during the initial three months after elective unilateral total hip arthroplasty for osteoarthritis. Specifically, the investigators aim to:

1. To evaluate change in postural stability between the DA and DL surgical approaches during the first three months after elective unilateral THA for OA, using both a clinical measure and an instrumented measure.

2. To evaluate change in balance confidence between the DA and DL surgical approaches during the first three months after elective unilateral THA for OA.

   Secondary objective

3. To compare the DA and DL approaches for activity levels, function, quality of life and pain during the first three months after elective unilateral THA for OA.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ≥ 60 years of age, scheduled to receive an elective unilateral THA (DA or DL approach) for OA
• Ambulatory for a minimum of 10 meters with or without a mobility aid but without the assistance of another person
• Able to read, write and speak English
• Able to provide consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Bilateral THA
• Underwent THA surgery for a diagnosis other than OA
• Any condition that will prevent participants from completing the study such as having a significant neurological, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal condition as denoted by their physician.