International Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Open Access

Abstract

Rehabilitation Program after Cell Therapy for Treatment of Femoral Head Osteonecrosis: A Narrative Review of Literature

Tomoki Aoyama

Recent development in the clinical application of cell therapy is potentially useful for treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Rehabilitation is essential to improve the hip joint function and activity of patients. Rehabilitation program after cell therapy for ONFH treatment and other regenerative medicine fields is known. This narrative review aimed to assess the actual state of the rehabilitation program after cell therapy for ONFH. Seventeen publications met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. This review focused on weight bearing, muscle strength exercise, range of motion exercise, and physical activity. Considerable information is available on weight bearing, but data on muscle strength exercise, range of motion exercise, and physical activity are insufficient. The initial timing of weight bearing may influence the result. Biomechanical, biophysical, physiological, and radiological knowledge are essential in designing the protocol. Moreover, knowledge on cell biology is required to promote the effect of cell therapy.