A comparison of effectiveness of fascial relaxation and classic rehabilitation regimens after hip arthroplasty

Abstract

Degenerative joint disease usually leads to functional failure and pain in the affected parts of the musculoskeletal system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of fascial relaxation for tense muscles in the affected hip joint by comparing this method and classic physiotherapeutic rehabilitation in patients after hip arthroplasty with regard to the range of motion, presence of pain and quality of life. The study involved 35 females qualified for hip arthroplasty. A control group consisted of 10 patients aged 47 to 77 years who received classic kinesiotherapy, including antithrombotic prophylaxis and isometric muscle exercises for the operated lower limb followed by active exercises for supported flexion in the hip and knee joints, active decompression exercises, assuming the upright position, and gait training. The experimental group consisted of 25 women aged 45 to 75 years who, along with conventional therapeutic exercises, were treated by fascial relaxation of the affected hip joint. The arthroplasty procedure was carried out from a posterior approach in all patients, in accordance with the technique recommended by Swanson. The results indicate that the group of patients who additionally received fascial relaxation demonstrated a significantly increased range of motion in the operated hip joint. The experimental group also reported considerable pain reduction and improved daily activity in comparison to the control group. The techniques of fascial relaxation significantly reduced recovery time and liminated muscle tensing in the operated hip joint, thus contributing to improving the range of motion.