Date of Award

5-2024

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Steven Halcrow

Keywords

Scoliosis, Total Hip Arthroplasty, Therapy, Hip, Back, Pain, Intervention,

Abstract

Introduction. The purpose of this case study is to discuss the role of physical therapy in patients who have moderate to severe scoliosis and plan to or have undergone a total hip arthroplasty. In evaluating the case of a female with moderate to severe scoliosis who recently underwent a total hip arthroplasty, it will be determined if physical therapy intervention was successful in improving her symptoms and reducing the risk of further complications.

Case Description. Patient is a 70-year-old female who presents to physical therapy evaluation several weeks post total hip arthroplasty. The patient has comorbidities of osteoarthritis and moderate to severe untreated scoliosis and reports symptoms of instability and increasing hip and back pain.

Intervention. The patient was seen two days per week for 12 weeks. Sessions included posture and gait training, lower extremity and core strengthening exercises, and stretching. Intervention was selected specific to areas of need based on evaluation findings. Resistance, weight, reps and duration were increased or reduced as appropriate based on the patient's progress or regression. Outcomes. Following 12 weeks of treatment, the patient had improved gait pattern, balance, ROM and overall strength.

Discussion. It was determined that physical therapy intervention can moderately to significantly improve symptoms in patients with moderate to severe scoliosis that have undergone a total hip replacement and potentially reduce the risk of post-surgical complications associated with spinal deformity. Currently literature supports these findings, but further quality evidence is needed within this topic to better understand the most effective interventions.

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