Therapeutics
Jing Hu, n/a
Research Associate
Rehabilitation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province
OMAHA, Nebraska, United States
Chengqi He, PhD
Professor
Rehabilitation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province
OMAHA, Nebraska, United States
Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is commonly performed for end-stage hip osteoarthritis, but postoperative rehabilitation is challenging due to limited resources and short hospital stays. This study compares internet-based remote rehabilitation to traditional home-based rehabilitation for improving hip function and reducing pain after THA. The goal is to enhance patient adherence, reduce costs, and improve accessibility, potentially integrating digital strategies into standard postoperative care for better long-term outcomes.
Design:
In a prospective, randomized controlled trial, patients undergoing unilateral THA were randomly assigned to a control group (CG) with paper-based rehabilitation or an intervention group (IG) using digital video-guided rehabilitation via WeChat. Both groups followed a 9-week rehabilitation program based on AAHKS guidelines, including strength, balance, endurance, and health education. Primary outcomes included pain reduction and functional improvement measured by WOMAC scores, while secondary outcomes assessed quality of life (EQ-5D), walking ability (30-second sit-to-stand test, timed up-and-go test [TUG]), and complications. Assessments were conducted preoperatively and at 9 and 24 weeks postoperatively.
Results:
Seventy-two patients were enrolled (38 IG, 34 CG). Baseline characteristics were comparable. The IG completed more therapy sessions, and clinical outcomes were significantly better at 9 weeks, except for EQ-5D (P > 0.05). No significant differences were observed at 24 weeks (P > 0.05). Four IG patients and one CG patient were readmitted for THA on the contralateral side during the 24-week follow-up.
Conclusion:
WeChat-based remote rehabilitation effectively improves short-term recovery following THA, particularly in the early postoperative phase. While long-term outcomes were similar, the intervention group showed higher therapy adherence and better short-term functional improvements, highlighting the potential of digital rehabilitation for enhancing postoperative care.
