Prehabilitation for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome: Intervention development using the Medical Research
Anuj Punnoose1, Leica Claydon Mueller2, Vianca Shah3
1Young Adult Hip Service & Department of Physiotherapy, Addenbrooke's - Cambridge University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK; School of Allied Health and Social care, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK.
Summary
A novel prehabilitation program was developed for hip arthroscopy patients with Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome (FAIS). This structured intervention aims to optimize physical readiness and minimize symptoms before surgery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- The effectiveness of prehabilitation for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome (FAIS) undergoing hip arthroscopy remains unknown.
- A structured approach is needed to develop a prehabilitation intervention for this patient cohort.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel prehabilitation intervention for patients with FAIS undergoing hip arthroscopy.
- To optimize physical readiness and minimize symptom exacerbation during the pre-operative period.
Main Methods:
- A multi-method approach using the Medical Research Council framework.
- Incorporated Patient and Public Involvement (PPI), systematic review, meta-analysis, and expert consensus.
- Synthesized electromyographic evidence to select and grade exercises based on muscle activation and symptom provocation risk.
Main Results:
- Developed the 8-week PREHAB FAI program with two progressive phases.
- Intervention includes progressive strengthening, range-of-motion, balance, proprioception, cardiovascular conditioning, and education.
- Exercises were selected to avoid impingement and symptom aggravation, with delivery via supervised and home-based sessions with digital monitoring.
Conclusions:
- The PREHAB FAI program was developed using structured methods, PPI, evidence, and expert consensus.
- The program is designed to optimize physical readiness for hip arthroscopy.
- A feasibility study (PREHAB FAI) will assess the intervention's feasibility, suitability, acceptability, and safety.
