Passive Static Stretching for Improving Hip Range of Motion in Patients and Healthy Individuals

This pilot study investigates the effects of passive static stretching on hip range of motion (ROM) in three populations: patients who have undergone total hip arthroplasty (THA), individuals with chronic non-surgical hip pain, and healthy volunteers. A total of 12 participants will be enrolled, divided equally into three groups.

Participants will follow a four-week stretching program, performing assisted hip flexion and abduction exercises three times per week, with each stretch held for 30 seconds. All sessions are supervised by a trained kinesiologist to ensure proper alignment, submaximal intensity, and participant safety.

Hip ROM will be measured pre- and post-intervention using high-precision triaxial electronic sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) under standardized conditions. The study will track changes in hip flexion and abduction, monitor for adverse events, and assess compliance.

The purpose is to explore whether passive static stretching is a safe, feasible, and effective method to enhance hip mobility across different populations, providing preliminary data for future larger studies.

Inclusion criteria

• Adults able to participate in a 4-week passive hip stretching protocol
• No contraindications to passive hip stretching
• No neurological or musculoskeletal comorbidities affecting motor control
• Willingness and ability to provide written informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of neurological or musculoskeletal conditions that impair hip movement or motor control
• Contraindications to stretching (e.g., recent surgery not related to hip arthroplasty, acute injuries)
• Inability or unwillingness to complete the full 4-week study protocol