Progressive strength training in older patients after hip fracture: a randomised controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
the aim of this study was to assess the effect of a 3-month strength-training programme on functional performance and self-rated health in a group of home-dwelling older hip fracture patients.


METHODS
randomised, controlled; single-blind parallel-group trial.


METHODS
intervention at outpatient's clinic.


METHODS
one hundred and fifty patients with surgical fixation for a hip fracture.


METHODS
strength training was integrated into all stages of the programme. The programme comprised four exercises, half of them in a standing position, performed at 80% of maximum. Measurements were taken after the 3-month intervention. The primary outcome measurement was the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Secondary outcomes were results of the sit-to-stand test, Timed Up-and-Go test, maximal gait speed, 6-min walk test, Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living scale and the SF-12 health status questionnaire.


RESULTS
at baseline, there were no significant between-group differences. At follow-up, the intervention group showed highly significant improvements both in the primary endpoint (BBS, mean difference 4.7 points) and in secondary endpoints of tapping strength, mobility and instrumental activities of daily living.


CONCLUSIONS
home-dwelling hip fracture patients can benefit from an extended supervised strength-training programme in a rehabilitation setting. These patients are capable of high-intensity strength training, which should optimise gains in physical function, strength and balance. Resistance exercise training seems to influence functional performance adaptation.
Department of Geriatric Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Oslo, Norway. hilde.sylliaas@medisin.uio.no
Hilde
H
Sylliaas
Therese
T
Brovold
Torgeir Bruun
TB
Wyller
Astrid
A
Bergland
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D005080:Exercise Test; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation; D006620:Hip Fractures / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation* / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D057187:Independent Living; D008297:Male; D053580:Muscle Strength; D009664:Norway; D004856:Postural Balance; D020127:Recovery of Function; D055070:Resistance Training; D016037:Single-Blind Method; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D016138:Walking