2025 Volume 36 Issue 1 Pages 58-61
[Objective] To investigate the usefulness of lumbar pelvic motion in the sagittal plane for perceptual leg length difference (PLLD) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) based on a case study. [Case presentation] A female patient in her 60s with end-stage left hip osteoarthritis who presented with pain and decreased gait function underwent left THA. Prominent PLLD, pain, and limited hip internal rotation range of motion were observed postoperatively on day 3. Thus, in addition to the usual physical therapy, intervention focused on trunk lateral flexion exercises was performed. Her pain and hip adduction range of motion improved postoperatively on day 8; however, her pelvic lateral tilt to the side of the surgery, lumbar kyphosis and posterior pelvic tilt range of motion in the sitting position were limited, and PLLD persisted. [Progress] The intervention method was changed to trunk flexion and extension exercises in the sagittal plane in addition to the usual physical therapy, on postoperative day 9. The patient’s pelvic lateral tilt and PLLD improved, and the mobility of herlumbar kyphosis and pelvic tilt in the sitting position increased postoperatively on day 14. [Conclusion] Lumbar pelvic motion in the sagittal plane may be useful in dealing with patients with PLLD post-THA.
