Objectives: To evaluate the functional and isokinetic muscular performance of the elderly, after total and unilateral hip arthroplasty due to hip osteoarthritis (OA).Methods: Twenty elderly with total hip arthroplasty (THA) and a matched control group were included. Isokinetic muscular performance (Biodex) and gait speeds were measured (GAITRite®). THA group completed the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) questionnaire.Results: There were no differences between non-operated and operated legs. Significant differences between groups were evident for hip abduction (p≤0,008), knee flexion (p≤0,003) and knee extension (p≤0,003) movements. At the fast gait speed, statistical significant effects between groups were observed (THA=1,71m/s, Control=1,96m/s, p=0,017). THA elderly group showed lower scores in pain (6±11,85), stiffness (8,12±15,39) and function (9,12±20,45) in WOMAC domains.
Conclusion:Years after THA surgery due to OA, the elderly were not restored to the same levels of strength and power of the hip and knee muscles, as compared with a matched control group