Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 24, 2026
Method and Instrumented Fixture for Femoral Fracture Testing in a Sideways Fall-on-the-Hip Position
Published on: August 17, 2017
Biomechanical benefits of hip protectors and compliant flooring for hip fracture prevention: A systematic and
Kitaek Lim1, Junwoo Park1, Seyoung Lee1
1Injury Prevention and Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju, South Korea.
Background:
Our systematic review and quantitative analysis aim to compile current biomechanical evidence on the impact force attenuation capabilities of hip protectors and compliant flooring, which are two widely implemented fall-related hip fracture prevention strategies in older adults.
Methods:
We conducted a systematic review in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, searching five databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and SportDiscus) for studies evaluating the biomechanical efficacy of hip protectors and compliant flooring.
Findings:
Fifteen studies (5 human experiments and 10 studies selected based on biomechanical guidelines) were included in the quantitative analysis. Our results revealed that protective efficacy was fundamentally outcome-dependent. For peak total impact force, hip protectors exhibited 206.7% greater attenuation than compliant flooring (W = 1971; p < 0.005). Conversely, for peak femoral neck impact force, compliant flooring provided 109% greater attenuation compared to hip protectors (W = 303; p < 0.005). Furthermore, peak total impact force attenuation was affected by the testing methods, being 328.1% and 127.0% greater in the drop tower and impact pendulum tests, respectively, than in falling experiments with humans (both p < 0.005).
Interpretation:
Our findings suggest a trend that the biomechanical efficacy of hip protectors and compliant flooring is highly dependent on where the force is measured and how they are tested. These results emphasize the need for standardized biomechanical testing protocols and careful interpretation of impact force attenuation data.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Fractures: Bone Repair
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the...
01:16Bones of the Lower Limb: Femur and Patella