Influence of physical rehabilitation on functional aspects in individuals submitted to total hip arthroplasty: a systematic review

Abstract Objective: by performing a systematic review, the present study aimed to evaluate the influence of physical rehabilitation on functionality, range of motion and musculoskeletal strength in patients submitted to total hip arthroplasty due to osteoarthritis. Methods: a systematic search for randomized and non-randomized controlled trials was conducted using the PubMed, Web of Science, PEDro, Cochrane, Clinical Trials and SciELO electronic databases, using the search strategies recommended by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Results: in general, protocols supervised by physiotherapists associated with performing active exercises of the hip periarticular muscles and knee extensors have provided effective functional prognosis. High intensity resistance exercises (dynamic and isometric) are more effective in improving functionality. Dynamic exercises with three to five sets of eight to twelve low and high intensity repetitions promoted more pronounced increases in muscle strength and range of motion than other therapeutic modalities. Conclusions: the techniques and protocols used for physical therapy treatment after THA are wide-ranging and their clinical efficacy is demonstrated in literature.