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Abstract
Hip arthroplasty: post-rehabilitation exercise program
published in September - October 2020 - in Il Fisioterapista - issue n.5
Luca Marin, Ilaria Albanese, Massimiliano Febbi, Andrea Giacalone, Nicola Lovecchio, Irene Bui

Hip replacement is one of the most effective orthopedic surgical procedures for patients suffering from severe osteoarthritis of the hip joint. It improves gait mechanics and reduces the risk of osteoarthritis of adjacent joints. At 1 year after surgery, 90% of patients are satisfied with the replacement, and report significant perceived pain relief. However, joint and postural problems may persist which can change gait dynamics and induce long-term joint damage. An individualized exercise program for the patient to perform at the end of the rehabilitation period could be useful to complete the treatment plan. This article describes a basic protocol recommended for patients who completed the rehabilitation program at a university clinic. Starting from the protocol as a basic model, a personalized exercise program is developed, tailored to suit the individual’s abilities and goals.