Study Comparing Structured Exercise and Education Versus Usual Care for Adults Aged 18-55 With Longstanding Hip and Groin Pain Referred to Orthopedic Care

What this Trial Is About

Longstanding hip and groin pain LHGP is a common and disabling issue among young to middle-aged adults often referred to orthopedic care. This trial investigates the effectiveness of a semi-structured, individualized physical therapist-led intervention HIPSTER compared to usual care for improving hip-related quality of life in people with LHGP. The study focuses on whether the HIPSTER model can provide better hip function and quality of life than the current standard physical therapy recommendations. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups usual care or the HIPSTER intervention. Usual care includes orthopedic examination, imaging, diagnostic injections, and a recommendation for physical therapy, but the therapy itself is not controlled by the study. The HIPSTER group receives the same orthopedic care plus a 16-week semi-structured, progressive physical therapy program that combines exercise therapy and patient education targeting physical and psychological challenges related to hip and groin pain. During the study, participants will be assessed at baseline and at 4 months primarily for changes in hip function and quality of life using the iHOT-33 measure. Additional assessments include pain, physical activity, muscle force, balance, and hop performance, among others, with follow-ups extending up to 5 years. Adherence to therapy is monitored weekly in the HIPSTER group. Safety, symptom improvement, and possible surgical interventions will also be tracked throughout the study period.

Education and Exercise for Patients With Longstanding Hip and Groin Pain