Guidelines and pitfalls for the rehabilitation following hip arthroscopy.

Rehabilitation guidelines following hip arthroscopy have been presented in the literature with common themes consisting of initial protection, restoration of lumbo-pelvic stability, neuromuscular re-education, and return to sport training. The purpose of this review is to present hip arthroscopy guidelines in 4 phases and to address common pitfalls that may delay the rehabilitative process. The goal of phase 1 should be to protect healing tissues through activity modifications. Phase 2 intends to return the patient to pain-free community ambulation without compensation or irritation. A review of hip muscular actions during gait is presented to guide exercise progressions during this phase. Phase 3 should reestablish neuromuscular control through strength and endurance training to provide the foundation for return to functional activities or sports training progressions. The last phase of rehabilitation is dedicated to reestablishing power, speed, agility, and skill for advanced sports and advanced functions.