Effects of Progressive Resistance Training After Hip Fracture: A Systematic Review

Hip fracture presents high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Some programs have focused on the effect of progressive strength work on post-hip fracture recovery. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review was to understand the effect of a progressive resistance training program on different variables in adults after hip fracture. This review includes randomized controlled trials that apply progressive strength programs in subjects after a hip fracture. The selected databases are PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Ebsco. A total of 7 studies were selected after screening. These studies were published between 2005 and 2022. Most of the research included adults over 65 years of age, showing a mean age of 77.80 years. In the majority of cases, the programs are applied between 3 and 12 months post-fracture. The most commonly applied intervention time is 3 months. The intervention time of the programs typically lasts for 3 months and includes 3-4 lower limb exercises involving, mainly hip and knee movements. All the investigations assess functional capacity and nearly all research the strength. It is shown that the intensity of strength work progresses from 60 to 80% of 1RM. Progressive strength training programs in post-hip fracture patients generally show an improvement in functional capacity, strength, balance, walking speed, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory fitness. However, the effects on independence, quality of life, self-reported physical disability, depression, and cognitive ability do not show conclusive results, and there is little research in this regard.