2020 Volume 70 Issue 3 Pages 193-198
Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the range of motion (ROM) and muscle strength as physical function after total hip arthroplasty (THA) using a posterolateral approach in hip osteoarthritis patients.
Methods: Fourteen patients undergoing THA were assessed before, and 1 and 2 weeks after THA. Their ROM and isometric muscle strength were examined.
Results: The preoperative ROM was significantly lower on the operative side than on the non-operative side, excluding hip adduction, but there was no significant difference 2 weeks after THA. The hip abduction ROM significantly improved 1 and 2 weeks after THA. The muscle strength before and 2 weeks after THA was lower on the operative side than on the non-operative side. There was a significant decrease in muscle strength during hip flexion and extension 1 week after THA, but it significantly improved 2 weeks after THA.
Conclusion: The ROM on the operative side became similar to that on the non-operative side 2 weeks after THA. The muscle strength on the operative side recovered to the preoperative level 2 weeks after THA, but it was significantly lower than that on the non-operative side. Physical therapy should take into consideration that muscle strength 1 week after THA is lower than that before THA.
