An invesigation into the rehabilitation of patients following primary total hip replacement due to osteoarthritis

Jepson, Paul David (2016). An invesigation into the rehabilitation of patients following primary total hip replacement due to osteoarthritis. University of Birmingham. M.Phil.

Preview

Jepson16MPhil.pdf
PDF - Accepted Version
Download (4MB)

Abstract

This thesis investigates the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for patients undergoing primary total hip replacement for osteoarthritis using two research methodologies.
A systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions delivered either pre-admission, during hospital stay, or post-discharge. Findings indicated the interventions reduced anxiety, improved pre-surgery and long-term function, and reduced length of stay. Small sample sizes, high levels of clinical and statistical heterogeneity and lack of specific occupational therapy studies reduced the strength of findings. The PROOF-THR feasibility study (ISRCTN38381590) recruited 44 participants to investigate recruitment and randomisation processes, acceptance of group allocation, fidelity of the intervention, and appropriateness of outcome measures and data collection methods. The intervention group received a bespoke pre-surgery home visit by an occupational therapist; the control group received treatment as usual. The intervention was delivered successfully with no withdrawals or crossovers, and reasonable retention rates indicating a definitive trial could be conducted following the feasibility methodology, although methods to improve follow-up data collection should be implemented.
This thesis concluded that higher quality occupational therapy specific research is needed to establish the efficacy and effectiveness of occupational therapy practices. A complex rehabilitation intervention can be successfully investigated by following established procedures.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Phil.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Phil.

Supervisor(s):