Effects of a Home-Based Resistance Training Program on Recovery From Total Hip Replacement Surgery: Feasibility and Pilot Testing

BACKGROUND: Postoperative exercise rehabilitation helps patients recover normal joint functions after total hip arthroplasty (total hip replacement surgery or THR) by strengthening the muscles that surround the replaced hip joint. However, the high cost of professionally supervised exercise rehabilitation programs limits access to program participation and, thus, to optimal recovery of normal joint functions. Therefore, the development of an effective home-based, self-monitored exercise rehabilitation program is critical to promote the optimal recovery of THR patients.

PURPOSE: This study tests the efficacy of a home-based resistance-band exercise program on mobility, functional exercise capacity, and health-related quality of life in THR patients.

METHODS: This study uses a preexperimental repeated measures design. A convenience sample of 30 patients who underwent total hip replacement for osteoarthritis was recruited. All patients participated in a 12-week home-based resistance training program. Data were collected at baseline and at 2, 6, and 12 weeks postoperation on the following dimensions: up-and-go time, timed walking distance, and quality of life. In addition, intervention-related adverse events and the exercise adherence rate were monitored. Generalized estimation equations were used to analyze changes in the outcome variables across time.

RESULTS: The study included 21 women and nine men. The mean age of the participants was 67.9 years (SD = 8.1 years, range = 55-86 years). Results of the generalized estimation equations showed a statistically significant time effect for up-and-go time, 6-minute walking distance, and health-related quality of life. After 12 weeks of training, the participants' up-and-go time decreased 40.33% from the baseline measurements, with a mean change of 6.38 seconds (p < .001). The 6-minute walking distance increased 41.34%, with a mean change of 117.12 meters (p < .001). The score for health-related quality of life decreased 78.94%, with a mean change of 39.10 (p < .001). The average exercise adherence rate was 72.63%. The average score for the feasibility of the intervention was 8.8 (range = 6-10).

CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The results of this study support the hypothesis that a home-based resistance training program is safe, feasible, and effective for improving the mobility, functional exercise capacity, and health-related quality of life of THR patients. Considering the low cost and convenience of a home-based resistance training program, health professionals should consider this and similar exercise programs when providing guidance to THR patients.