Comprehensive rehabilitation for preventing complications subsequent to hip replacement surgery

Total hip arthroplasty (hip replacement) is often the only option for restoring mobility in patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, or a proximal femur fracture. Demand for such surgeries is increasing every year; however, the number of postoperative complications associated with them is also growing. Many of these complications – deep vein thrombosis, dislocation, and loosening of the prosthesis – arise due to insufficient attention to rehabilitation measures during the pre- and postoperative phases. Therefore, adherence to the comprehensive protocol of therapeutic and rehabilitative measures is essential when aiming to optimally restore joint function and enable patients to resume their usual physical activities. This study reviews the main stages of rehabilitation for patients following hip replacement surgery. These stages include preoperative rehabilitation, pain management, and early postoperative rehabilitation in an inpatient setting. An outpatient rehabilitation protocol focusing on gait biomechanics correction is also discussed. Comprehensive rehabilitation plays a crucial role in improving quality of life after hip replacement surgery.

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