Impact of rigorous muscle strength and power training on mobility among individuals with hip fractures: A randomized controlled trial

Patient’s mobility is not restored to pre-fracture levels until two years following a fractured hip. A persistent weakness in the muscles on the fractured leg may contribute to mobility limitations. A randomized controlled trial was conducted on individuals with hip fractures aged 60-85 to examine the effect of strength and power training twice a week on mobility. A random assignment was made between a 46-person intervention group and a 40 person control group. Over a period of twelve weeks, strength training was conducted twice per week under supervision. All measurements were conducted by a blinded measurer. We assessed mobility by timing the time it takes to climb stairs, get up from a chair, and walk. To analyze the data, we used intention-to-treat analysis. A study of efficacy was conducted for subjects who adhered to training more than 50% of the time (n = 40). 4 of the controls did not show a statistically significant improvement in mobility (p <0.001). Training had no significant effect on walking time or TUG. During the efficacy analysis, the average chair rise time for the exercise group improved by 5.4% (p < 0.005). The results of intense muscle strength and power training were observed in self-reported improvements in mobility. Participants with higher training compliance had an improved chair rise rate.