An interdisciplinary evaluation involving both a physical therapist and an orthopaedic surgeon is a feasible approach for managing non-arthritic hip pain, according to a recent study. The research, published recently, investigated the practicality of this collaborative method within a hip preservation clinic setting. The study highlights the potential for improved treatment planning through integrated care.
Study Design and Results
The observational feasibility study randomized participants to either an interdisciplinary evaluation (surgeon + physical therapist) or a standard evaluation (surgeon alone). Over a 15-month recruitment period, 81% of eligible patients enrolled. Reasons for enrollment included a willingness to participate (n = 16), urgency to resolve pain (n = 10), and interest in multiple-provider care (n = 15). Refusal reasons cited were time constraints (n = 11) and a preference for single-provider care (n = 6).
Retention for primary variables of interest was 100% in both groups. The interdisciplinary evaluation resulted in participants spending an average of 23.5 minutes more in the clinic compared to the standard evaluation (P < 0.001), indicating the additional time required for the collaborative assessment.
Clinical Implications
The findings suggest that incorporating a physical therapist into the evaluation process alongside an orthopaedic surgeon is not only viable but may also offer a more comprehensive understanding of the patient's condition. This approach could lead to more tailored and effective treatment plans for individuals suffering from non-arthritic hip pain. The study supports the idea that collaborative, interdisciplinary care models can be successfully implemented in hip preservation clinics, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Future Directions
Further research is warranted to explore the long-term benefits of interdisciplinary evaluations on patient outcomes, including pain reduction, functional improvement, and overall quality of life. Additionally, investigating the cost-effectiveness of this approach would be valuable for healthcare providers and policymakers.
