Reliability and Validity of the Six-Spot Step Test After Total Hip Arthroplasty

The Six-Spot Step Test (SSST), which evaluates balance and functional ambulation, will be performed in an area 5 meters long and 1 meter wide. Five wooden cylinders will be arranged in a zig-zag pattern within this space, with the last cylinder positioned at the centerline. The participant will be asked to strike the wooden cylinders with the medial or lateral side of the same foot and push them outward. The test will be repeated twice with the dominant foot and twice with the non-dominant foot. A trial will be conducted before the test to familiarize participants with the procedure. A two-minute rest period between the test and trials will be provided to minimize fatigue effects. The test's inter-rater reliability will be assessed by two physiotherapists with more than 5 years of clinical experience, who will administer the test twice at 5-minute intervals.

The Oxford Hip Score will be used for functional level assessment.

The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) will be used to assess dynamic balance, which is reliable and commonly used within the orthopedic setting.