This study aimed to systematically review the literature with regards to studies of rehabilitation programmes that\r\nhave tried to improve function after total hip replacement (THR) surgery. 15 randomised controlled trials were\r\nidentified of which 11 were centre-based, 2 were home based and 2 were trials comparing home and centre\r\nbased interventions. The use of a progressive resistance training (PRT) programme led to significant improvement\r\nin muscle strength and function if the intervention was carried out early (< 1 month following surgery) in a centre\r\n(6/11 centre-based studies used PRT), or late (> 1 month following surgery) in a home based setting (2/2 home\r\nbased studies used PRT). In direct comparison, there was no difference in functional measures between home and\r\ncentre based programmes (2 studies), with PRT not included in the regimes prescribed. A limitation of the majority\r\nof these intervention studies was the short period of follow up. Centre based program delivery is expensive as\r\nhigh costs are associated with supervision, facility provision, and transport of patients. Early interventions are\r\nimportant to counteract the deficit in muscle strength in the affected limb, as well as persistent atrophy that exists\r\naround the affected hip at 2 years post-operatively. Studies of early home-based regimes featuring PRT with long\r\nterm follow up are needed to address the problems currently associated with rehabilitation following THR.
Loading....