Rehabilitation and Return to Sport After Hip Arthroscopy

• Published in: Operative techniques in orthopaedics 2019-12, Vol.29 (4), p.100739, Article 100739
• Main Authors: Wilson, Kevin W., Kannan, Abhishek S., Kopacko, Mike, Vyas, Dharmesh
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: arthroscopy; hip; outcomes; rehabilitation; return to sport
• ISSN: 1048-6666; 1558-3848
• DOI: 10.1016/j.oto.2019.100739

Advancement in hip arthroscopic technique, expanding indications, and a growing body of literature support its use for addressing intra- and extra- articular hip pathology. As a result of expanding treatment options, hip rehabilitation protocols have evolved to meet the demands of a diverse, active patient population. Rehabilitation following hip arthroscopy focuses on activity modifications to allow for soft tissue healing, gait training, reestablishment of neuromuscular control, strength and endurance training, and sports-specific training. Hip arthroscopy has also shown reliable improvement in patient-reported outcome measures over short- and intermediate- term follow-up. The literature involving return-to-play rates after hip arthroscopy in athletes demonstrates favorable outcomes. The incidence of complications following hip arthroscopy, including but not limited to venous thromboembolism and heterotopic ossification, is low. Current rehabilitation regimens are based primarily on physical therapist and clinician experience. Future studies are needed to define objective outcome measures to determine appropriate postoperative protocol.