Research & Innovation
Publications
Efficacy of real-time feedback exercise therapy in patients following total hip arthroplasty
PMU Author
Peter Augat
All Authors
Klaus Widhalm, Lukas Berger-Maul, Harald Penasso, Sebastian Durstberger, Peter Putz, Sebastian Leder-Berg, Hans Kainz, Peter Augat
Journal association
BMC MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The prevalence of hip osteoarthritis is increasing and frequently requires total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, a standardized rehabilitation protocol to ensure sustainable functional recovery from THA has yet to be established. Therefore, this study compared the effects of real-time feedback-assisted home-exercise versus standard written instructions on the functional performance of patients following unilateral THA.
METHODS: This study was designed as a cluster-randomized controlled pilot trial with two parallel groups. Data from three-dimensional movement analysis, clinical examination, body-composition, activity monitoring and questionnaires were collected at baseline four weeks post-surgery, and follow-ups at three- and six-months post-surgery. Baseline measurements were followed by an eight-week supervised group exercise therapy. For home-exercise the control-group received printed instructions, whereas the intervention-group was provided a real-time feedback prototype.
RESULTS: A total of 22 patients, aged 52 to 73 years (mean 62.9), participated in the study, 21 completed the intervention and thereof, 19 could be assessed at six-months post-surgery. No statistically significant differences were found for the primary outcomes frontal knee, pelvis and trunk range-of-motion during level walking, nor the secondary outcomes Harris Hip Score (HHS), SF-12 and IPAQ short form. Both groups improved their mean walking speed, cadence, step length, isometric knee flexion force of operated limb, SF-12 physical domain and HHS.
CONCLUSION: Real-time feedback assisted home-exercise after THA did not differ when compared to commonly used written instructions in improving function and quality of life. However, patients in the real-time feedback group reported greater motivation and self-confidence regarding exercise performance, which was not reflected in the recorded numbers of home-exercise sessions.
TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was prospectively registered on 7th December 2023 at ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06161194.
Keywords
Humans, Male, Aged, Middle Aged, Female, Treatment Outcome, Pilot Projects, Recovery of Function, Osteoarthritis, Hip/surgery, Exercise Therapy/methods, Range of Motion, Articular, Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip/rehabilitation, Hip Joint/surgery