The Effects of Body Position on Trochanteric Soft Tissue Thickness-Implications for Predictions of Impact Force and Hip Fracture Risk During Lateral Falls.

Trochanteric soft tissue thickness (TSTT) is a protective factor against fall-related hip fractures. This study's objectives were to determine: (1) the influence of body posture on TSTT and (2) the downstream effects of TSTT on biomechanical model predictions of fall-related impact force (Ffemur) and hip fracture factor of risk. Ultrasound was used to measure TSTT in 45 community-dwelling older adults in standing, supine, and side-lying positions with hip rotation angles of -25°, 0°, and 25°.