The Effectiveness of Bracing in Patients with Hip Osteoarthritis: A Literature Review of Pre- and Post-Total Hip Arthroplasty

Abstract

Background: Hip osteoarthritis (HOA) occurs when the hip joint wears down over time, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving. Hip bracing is increasingly considered a conservative or supportive intervention in patients with hip OA and after total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, evidence regarding its effectiveness remains inconclusive. Objective: To determine the current literature on the effectiveness of hip bracing in individuals with hip OA before THA in reducing pain, improving function, and decreasing dislocation in patients following THA. Study design: A literature review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Methods: Two separate search strategies were conducted using five electronic databases: Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, PubMed, and Embase, to find the studies meeting the inclusion criteria. The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) critical appraisal tool was used to assess the quality of the included papers. Results: Fifteen included studies (9 pre-THA, six post-THA). In patients with hip OA, the hip brace showed potential improvement in reducing pain and enhancing gait in patients with mild to moderate stages. In post-THA, the hip brace is used primarily to prevent or manage dislocation. However, there was no significant difference in the dislocation rate in the braced group compared to the unbraced group. The leading risk factors of dislocation are high body index, posterior surgical approach, and early postoperative dislocation.