Effect of Nordic Walking in Patients With Hip Osteoarthritis: A Preliminary Report From Japan

Nordic walking (NW) is introduced as a feasible form of exercise that can be performed by anybody. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of NW for 6 months in a small sample of the patients with hip osteoarthritis (OA). Nine female patients with mild-to-severe hip OA were recruited from an outpatient clinic of a university hospital. Patients were encouraged to perform NW for 6 months. Outcomes, including Harris Hip Score (HHS), 10 meter walking time, Timed Up & Go Test, and muscle strength were assessed at 3 and 6 months after intervention. Clinical evaluation and walking ability improved at 3 months and were maintained up to 6 months. Although hip abductor muscle strength did not improve significantly, knee extensor in involved side improved at 3 months significantly. NW improved walking ability and function of the joints in patients with hip OA.