Rehabilitation of the hip

Abstract

With the advent of hip arthroscopy, there has come an increased recognition of intra-articular hip pathologies and improved techniques for the management of these various pathologies. While mechanical problems can often be corrected through surgery, the functional deficits must be corrected through the rehabilitation process. Therefore, the evolution of hip arthroscopy has necessitated a progression in hip rehabilitation to insure optimal postsurgical results. Understanding the process of rehabilitation from preoperative education to the patient's achievement of full function is an integral part of the patient reaching their full potential postsurgery. While it is generally accepted that rehabilitation after hip arthroscopy is vitally important, there is limited evidence-based research to support the rehabilitative guidelines. Rehabilitative methodology and techniques commonly employed after minimally invasive surgical techniques for other joints, such as the knee, shoulder, elbow, and ankle, have found application in the management of hip disorders. Understanding and respecting basic principles is always key to obtaining successful outcomes with any technique. Keeping these principles in mind, this chapter attempts to provide the clinician with guidelines for the rehabilitation of the hip.