Use of a prone transfer technique in patients with severe hip-flexion restrictions: a report of 3 cases

We report 3 cases in which the prone transfer technique improved the functional status of patients with postoperative restriction of hip flexion. All 3 patients, who had undergone a different type of surgery, were unable to get out of bed without a tilt table, and therefore could not be discharged home. The prone transfer technique enables patients to move from a lying to a standing position with or without the use of a flat board. All 3 patients were discharged home when they could perform this transfer without assistance. It required 10 to 18 sessions of therapy training, which took place in 5 to 9 days. With advancements in surgical techniques, postoperative joint-motion restriction may be seen more frequently in community settings. Prone transfer may provide a low-cost, low-technologic way to mobilize patients with hip-flexion restriction.