Walking programme helps physical function following hip replacement

An experimental walking programme may improve physical function after hip replacement surgery, researchers in Norway report.

A study at the University of Oslo has revealed that patients who receive walking skills training following total hip arthroplasty for osteoarthritis experience improved physical functioning.

The physical therapy program was reported to display a positive effect on walking distance and stair climbing, which continued 12 months following hip replacement surgery.

Kristi Elisabeth Heiberg, a PhD candidate at the University of Oslo and lead author of the study, stated: "Physical therapy, particularly exercises that increase strength and improve walking, is a major component of patient rehabilitation following hip arthroplasty."

"The training program was well tolerated by patients and no complications were reports (sic)," she concluded.

Patients who undergo hip replacement also report an increased ability to perform daily tasks, while researchers at Duke University Medical Centre also claim that positive experiences following hip replacement surgery do not have an age limit.

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