A randomized controlled trial: Preoperative home-based combined Tai Chi and Strength Training (TCST) to improve balance and aerobic capacity in patients with total hip arthroplasty (THA)

Abstract Objectives To investigate the effect of a 12-week balance training program, combined TCST, on balance activity and aerobic capacity in patients with hip osteoarthritis. Methods Single-blind randomized grouping cohort study was conducted at our hospital from December 2008 to December 2011. A total of 81 patients aged from 60 to 69 years old diagnosed with end-stage hip osteoarthritis were recruited. They were randomly divided into two groups: training group (TG) and control group (CG). Participants in TG should do the TCST program under family's supervision for 12 weeks. Parameters including WOMAC score, 6 min walk test, stand up, walk test, situation of the hip mobility were compared between TG and CG by one-way ANOVA. Results There was no significant difference of baseline characteristics between these two groups ( P  > 0.05). Participants in TG could complete 87.1% of movements of TCST. After training, the distance of 6-min walk was obviously increased from 409.59 ± 51.31 m to 478.10 ± 52.46 m ( P P P Conclusion The 12-week TCST program have good adherence, and can effectively improve balance and aerobic capacity status in patients with end-stage osteoarthritis, while this training can not effectively alleviate the pain and improve hip motion of patients. Hence, further THA is necessary to solve the problems. Practice Patients with osteoarthritis can do this training program under family's supervision. Implications Providing a good advice on rehabilitation for patients preparing to do THA.