Effects of EDUcation and EXercise Compared to Education Alone on Clinical and Physiological Outcomes in Patients With Hip Osteoarthritis

The EDUEX trial will determine whether the addition of progressive resistance training (PRT) to a patient education program (EDU) will improve clinical outcomes in patients with hip OA. In a subsample, the effect of PRT on the articular cartilage and other structures of the hip joint is investigated. In this subsample, a comprehensive assessment of possible mechanisms underlying the effects of exercise on pain and function is undertaken. The EduEx trial will be a multicentre, stratified (by site), block randomized (allocation 1:1), controlled, parallel-group superiority trial. 150 people with hip OA will be recruited from hospitals, physiotherapy clinics, social media and newspapers. Participants will be randomized to PRT and EDU or EDU alone. All 150 participants will be included in the clinical evaluation study (CLIN). The last 40 participants randomized to PRT+EDU and to EDU, respectively, will also be included in the mechanistic (MECH) evaluation study (n=80), by being asked to participate in additional outcome assessments. The primary endpoint will be the 12 months follow-up for both the CLIN and MECH study, while a secondary endpoint will be the 3-month follow-up.