Structured Exercise Program for Hip Arthroplasty: An Expert Consensus Using the Delphi Technique

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Physical Therapy
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Hip fractures are increasingly common, necessitating effective rehabilitation.
• Structured exercise programs are vital for post-hip arthroplasty recovery.
• Limited literature exists on specific exercise protocols for hip arthroplasty following fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To achieve expert consensus on a structured exercise program for patients undergoing hip arthroplasty due to hip fractures.
• To develop a validated rehabilitation protocol to guide physiotherapy practice.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major scientific databases.
• A three-round online modified Delphi survey involving national and international physiotherapy experts was employed.
• Iterative feedback and consensus-building among panelists refined the exercise protocol.

Main Results:

• The Delphi survey process led to the consensus and validation of a structured exercise program.
• Initial rounds identified key rehabilitation items, with subsequent rounds refining the protocol.
• Expert feedback was integral in finalizing the exercise program framework.

Conclusions:

• A validated exercise protocol for hip arthroplasty following fractures has been established through expert consensus.
• This program provides essential guidance for physiotherapists to optimize patient recovery.
• The findings contribute to evidence-based rehabilitation strategies in orthopedic surgery.