The Effect of Preoperative Whey Protein and Physical Exercise Support on Recovery After Total Hip Arthroplasty

Background:

Hip osteoarthritis (HOA) is a common degenerative disease in older adults that leads to pain, deformity, and functional loss, thereby reducing quality of life. Muscle atrophy, neuromuscular dysfunction, and pain are frequently observed in the affected limb, resulting in decreased muscle strength. Gait analyses have shown reduced hip range of motion (ROM), decreased walking speed, and diminished hip flexion and abduction moments.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA), widely used in the treatment of HOA, is also performed for femoral fractures, arthritis, developmental hip dysplasia, and osteonecrosis. Although THA is an effective surgical method, delayed wound healing, infection risk, muscle weakness, and mobilization limitations remain important postoperative challenges. With postoperative pain reduction, hip function and quality of life improve significantly. However, diminished proprioception may cause balance problems, increasing the risk of falls.

Exercise therapy plays a key role in postoperative rehabilitation after THA. Physiotherapists provide gait training, ROM exercises, and balance activities. Exercise therapy reduces pain and increases physical activity levels. Systematic reviews have demonstrated the positive effects of exercise on muscle strength and gait performance following THA.

Nevertheless, delayed wound healing, infection, increased morbidity and mortality, and prolonged hospitalization may still occur after THA. In this context, preoperative nutritional support plays a critical role in improving patient outcomes. Protein-based supplements can support muscle protein synthesis and accelerate recovery. Increased protein intake helps prevent muscle breakdown and supports recovery. Thus, selecting an appropriate nutritional and exercise strategy is essential in the postoperative management of orthopedic patients.