Vitamin d is related to gait recovery after total hip arthroplasty: A prospective analysis

- 25(OH)D was correlated to peak extension and power generation in THA patients.
- Significant improvement of most gait parameters was observed 3 months after THA.
- The effect of 25(OH)D on change in gait variables is modest.

ObjectivesTo investigate the association between baseline serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and gait pattern in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA).MethodsProspective study of patients with hip osteoarthritis undergoing primary THA between January 2012 and December 2013. Blood samples were collected on the day of hospital admission. Gait analyses were performed before surgery and 3 months postoperatively. Internal moments were captured.ResultsMajor improvements were observed in gait data after THA. 25(OH)D levels correlated with change in peak extension (R = 0.25, p = 0.017) and peak power generation (R = 0.25, p = 0.04). Multiple linear regression analyses were performed. In model 1, 25(OH)D and change in gait speed explained the variability of peak extension (R2 = 0.1, p = 0.004). In model 2, only 25(OH)D explained the variability of peak power generation (R2 = 0.05, p = 0.044).Conclusions25(OH)D levels were correlated with change in peak extension and peak power generation. The effect of 25(OH)D on change in gait variables after THA is modest.