A Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial Investigating the Efficacy of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy versus sham Therapy as an Adjunct to Conventional Physiotherapy on Pain, functional Disability, and quality of life in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty

Abstract BackgroundThe most popular surgical treatment for end-stage hip joint arthritis is total hip arthroplasty (THA). The main problems that occur after THA are pain, functional disability and reduced quality of life. The primary rehabilitation programmed for post-THA is conventional physiotherapy, but there is growing interest in complementary therapies that could hasten recovery and enhance results. Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy (PEMF) is a non-invasive treatment that reduces pain, promotes tissue repair, and may improve musculoskeletal outcomes. However, its effectiveness in THA patients is yet unknown, especially in comparison to sham PEMF therapy.MethodsA 1:1 random assignment will allocate participants who have undergone total hip arthroplasty to receive active PEMF therapy or sham PEMF therapy in conjunction with conventional physiotherapy. Participants will be evaluated before and after the intervention and administered during a predetermined time frame. The primary outcomes will be a visual analogue scale and a Harris hip score for assessing postoperative pain and functional impairment. The secondary outcome will consist of an SF-36 questionnaire to evaluate quality of life and patient satisfaction. Additionally, safety and compliance with the intervention will be observed throughout the study.DiscussionThe purpose of this study is to investigate the possible impact of combining traditional physiotherapy with pulsed electromagnetic field therapy after total hip replacement.Trial registrationCTRI No. CTRI/2025/03/083475. Registered on 26 March 2025.