Neuromuscular Adaptations in Gluteus Medius Activity Following Resurfacing and Total Hip Arthroplasty

In middle-aged patients, the choice between resurfacing and total hip arthroplasty may be difficult given recent studies showing differences in functional outcomes. Success of clinical outcomes, defined by a greater range of motion and reduced pain following surgery, are dependent on a return in function of incised muscle groups. To identify neuromuscular recovery following hip arthroplasty, hip abductor activity was assessed throughout the first year of recovery. Analysis focused on characterization of the temporal activity of the gluteus medius during activities of daily living. Adaptation in muscle firing and biomechanical outcomes was revealed in both groups, though more pronounced in the THA cohort with increasingly difficult activities. Differences between groups should be considered by clinicians when considering the best treatment options for their patients.