In 2004, a single-blind, randomized controlled trial, Elaine Trudelle-Jackson and Susan S. Smith investigated the efficacy of a late-phase exercise regimen for individuals who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) between 4 to 12 months prior. The study, conducted with a convenience sample of 34 adults, allocated participants randomly into either experimental or control groups, with 28 subjects completing the trial.

The intervention spanned over 8 weeks, during which the control group engaged in basic isometric and active range of motion exercises, while the experimental group underwent strength and postural stability exercises. Exercise sessions were conducted in the subjects’ homes, with instruction and measurements taken in an outpatient research and treatment center.

Key outcome measures included the score on the 12-Item Hip Questionnaire, fear of falling, muscle torque in hip flexors, extensors, abductors, and knee extensors, as well as postural stability in single stance.

Results indicated a statistically significant improvement across all parameters for the experimental group. Specifically, participants demonstrated enhanced self-perceived function, increased muscle strength (including hip flexors by 24.4%, hip extensors by 47.8%, hip abductors by 41.2%, and knee extensors by 23.4%), and improved postural stability by 36.8%. Conversely, the control group did not exhibit significant changes in any measured variables. Notably, fear of falling measures remained unchanged in both groups.

In conclusion, the study findings underscore the benefits of a targeted exercise program focusing on weight bearing and postural stability for individuals recovering from THA between 4 to 12 months post-surgery. These interventions significantly enhance muscle strength, postural stability, and self-perceived function, offering promising avenues for optimizing rehabilitation protocols in this patient population.

Reference: Trudelle-Jackson, E., & Smith, S. S. (2004). Effects of a late-phase exercise program after total hip arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation, 85(7), 1056-1062.