Recovery of Muscular Strength Following Total Hip Replacement: A Narrative Review

Cureus. 2024 Aug 28;16(8):e68033. doi: 10.7759/cureus.68033. eCollection 2024 Aug.

Abstract

This narrative review analyzes muscle strength recovery following total hip replacement (THR) and looks at various factors affecting postoperative muscle function restoration. The review synthesizes evidence from various studies regarding the timing and degree of muscular strength recovery, different rehabilitation protocols, and patient-specific variables such as age, preoperative physical condition, and comorbidities, among others. Overall, it appears that THR is associated with improved hip function and quality of life, but this usually takes a long time due to individualized physical therapy interventions. In addition, postoperative rehabilitation has been found not to exist without any personal factors involved such as age or gender whereby for instance senior citizens have no alternative but to go for THR surgery, making their lower limbs weaker than those who are younger. Based on the findings in this review on muscle recovery after THR surgeries, one may conclude that this endeavor should begin as early as possible and include regular resistance training programs with performance-focused functional training after surgery. In addition, more longitudinal studies should be conducted regarding post-surgical outcomes comparing other traditional medical practices.

Keywords: functional recovery; hip surgery; muscular strength; physical therapy; postoperative recovery; rehabilitation; strength training; total hip replacement.

Publication types

  • Review