Effects of Nordic walking after total hip arthroplasty: A scoping review.

Abstract

Hip osteoarthritis causes pain, reduced mobility, and functional limitations. Total hip arthroplasty relieves pain, but functional deficits may persist for months. Nordic walking, a low-impact gait modality using poles, may improve functional performance and physical activity in individuals with hip osteoarthritis and potentially after surgery. This scoping review followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Seven databases were searched from 2000 to February 2026 to identify studies evaluating Nordic walking in adults with hip osteoarthritis or total hip arthroplasty. Eligible designs included randomized controlled trials and cohort follow-up studies reporting performance-based (PBOM) and patient-reported outcomes (PROM). Data extraction followed PICOT criteria. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and PEDro scale. Eight randomized controlled trials (468 participants) were included. Methodological quality ranged from moderate to high, with limitations in blinding. Nordic walking improved PBOM, including Timed Up and Go, 6-min walk test, stair climbing, and chair-rise performance. Gait adaptations included increased step length and reduced pelvic compensation. PROM (WOMAC, Harris Hip Score, PASE) also improved, particularly in physical function and activity levels. Only one study assessed post-arthroplasty patients, suggesting Nordic walking is safe and does not increase hip joint loading. Nordic walking improves functional performance and patient-reported outcomes in hip osteoarthritis. Evidence after total hip arthroplasty remains limited. Further high-quality studies are needed to determine its efficacy and optimal use in postoperative rehabilitation.