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World J Orthop. Oct 18, 2013; 4(4): 248-258
Published online Oct 18, 2013. doi: 10.5312/wjo.v4.i4.248
Published online Oct 18, 2013. doi: 10.5312/wjo.v4.i4.248
Feasibility of progressive strength training shortly after hip fracture surgery
Jan Overgaard, Department of Rehabilitation, Municipality of Lolland, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research-Copenhagen (PMR-C), DK-4930 Maribo, Denmark
Morten T Kristensen, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research-Copenhagen (PMR-C), Departments of Physiotherapy and Orthopaedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
Author contributions: Overgaard J and Kristensen MT contributed to the study conception and design, data interpretation, manuscript preparation and final approval of the manuscript; Overgaard J contributed to the data collection; Kristensen MT contributed to the data analysis.
Supported by The Danish Physical Therapist’s Research Fund
Correspondence to: Jan Overgaard, PT, Department of Rehabilitation, Municipality of Lolland, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research-Copenhagen, Sdr. Boulevard 84, DK-4930 Maribo, Denmark. overgaard_j@hotmail.com
Telephone: +45-611-21191 Fax: +45-546-76948
Received: May 15, 2013
Revised: July 15, 2013
Accepted: September 4, 2013
Published online: October 18, 2013
Revised: July 15, 2013
Accepted: September 4, 2013
Published online: October 18, 2013
Core Tip
Core tip: The recovery of strength and function in patients with hip fractures is an on-going challenge. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a 6-wk progressive lower limb strength-training programme. To our knowledge, this was the first study to implement such a program successfully in an outpatient geriatric setting within 2-3 wk after hip fracture surgery. Training loads, muscle strength and functional performances improved without an increase in hip fracture-related pain, which is considered new and important knowledge for all professionals aiming to improve the rehabilitation outcomes of patients with hip fractures.