The effect of land-based exercise therapy in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip: a systematic review

Fredrik Paulsberg, turnusfysioterapeut, Ørsta kommune. Fredrik@paulsberg.com

Stian Endre Olsen, turnusfysioterapeut, Rana kommune.

Håvard Østerås, førstelektor, studieleder og spesialist i idrettsfysioterapi. Fysioterapeututdanningen, Høgskolen i Sør-Trøndelag, Trondheim.

Abstract

Background/purpose: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a relatively common disease, with prevalence between 1-11 percent in western European countries. OA can cause pain, stiffness, instability and loss of muscle strength and range of motion, which contributes to loss of function. The disease limits an active lifestyle, thereby the patients’ quality of life. Hence this trial examined what effect exercise therapy might have on pain, recovery of function and quality of life in patients with OA of the hip.

Method: Systematic literature searches was undertaken in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and PEDro to find RCTs done in exercise therapy in OA of the hip. The quality of each article was examined and classified using the PEDro scale.

Results: Five studies matched the criteria for inclusion (n=549). These showed a moderate reduction in pain and a moderate improvement in function for the subjects. No significant differences regarding quality of life were found.

Conclusion: Land-based exercise therapy had moderate effect on pain and function during intervention, but the positive effect decreases after completion of intervention. Future research should examine what is needed for better long-term effect.

Key-words: Osteoarthritis, exercise therapy, hip, land-based.

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