Balancing act: Unraveling the link between muscle strength, proprioception, and stability in unilateral hip osteoarthritis

Abstract

The objectives of this study are to compare hip muscle strength, hip joint proprioception, and functional balance between individuals with unilateral hip OA and asymptomatic individuals and to examine the relationships among these variables in the hip OA population. In a prospective cross-sectional study, 122 participants (unilateral Hip OA: n = 56, asymptomatic: n = 56) were assessed at the CAMS/KKU musculoskeletal Physical Therapy laboratory. Ethical standards were upheld throughout the research, with informed consent obtained. Hip muscle strength was measured using a hand-held dynamometer, hip joint proprioception with a digital inclinometer, and functional balance using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. Hip OA individuals exhibited significantly lower muscle strength and proprioceptive accuracy, and poorer functional balance than controls (p < 0.003). Correlation analyses revealed a positive correlation between muscle strength and BBS scores (r = 0.38 to 0.42) and a negative correlation with TUG test times (r = -0.36 to -0.41). Hip joint reposition sense (JRS) in flexion showed a negative correlation with balance (r = -0.46), while JRS in abduction was positively correlated (r = 0.46). The study highlights the clinical importance of muscle strength and proprioception in functional balance among individuals with unilateral hip OA. The results support the incorporation of muscle strengthening and proprioceptive training in interventions to improve balance and mobility in this population.

Usability Assessment of Technologies for Remote Monitoring of Knee Osteoarthritis

“…Some evidence in the current state of the art suggests a correlation between the severity of OA (and thus the pain levels) and the body sway, namely the ability to maintain a specific posture [24] . For example, patients affected by hip OA show significantly lower proprioceptive accuracy and poorer functional balance than healthy subjects [25] . Indeed, recently, neuromuscular exercises and neuromuscular electrical stimulation have been proposed as methods to improve balance and consequently reduce fall risks, in OA patients [26] .…”

The strength of balance: Strength and dynamic balance in children with and without hypermobility

“…Balance is defined as the ability to maintain an upright posture and to keep the center of gravity within the limits of the base of support [ 31 ]. Muscle strength and proprioception have been reported to play significant roles in balance [ 32 ]. The most frequently used test to assess balance clinically in children with GJH is one leg stance [ 5 , 33 ].…”

“…There are two possible routes for the onset of musculoskeletal symptoms in children with GJH [ 32 ]. First, stabilizing a joint during physical activities requires strength but when strength is compromised in a hypermobile joint, the possibility of sustaining injury is increased [ 37 ].…”