High-intensity strength training improves mobility in patients after hip fracture: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Background: Hip fracture affects millions of persons and is associated with excess morbidity and mortality. More knowledge is needed to regard the prolonged effects of intensive exercise in relatively frail hip fracture patients. In this meta-analysis, we want to determine whether intensity strength training in patients after hip fracture is superior to general exercises in improving physical function.

Methods: We searched electronic literature databases, including Pubmed, Cochrane, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and Embase from inception to November 2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing training group with control group in patients after hip fracture. The primary endpoint of this meta-analysis was Berg balance scale (BBS). The secondary outcomes were Short-Form 36 physical function score (SF-36 physical function score) and Six-minute walk test (6MWT).

Results: We included 7 RCTs with a total of 665 patients. The BBS and SF-36 physical function score were significantly better in the training group (MD = 4.45, 95%CI 1.47 to 7.43, Z = 2.93, P = 0.003) and (MD = 16.31, 95%CI 4.92 to 27.69, Z = 2.81, P = 0.005) respectively. The result showed that the 6MWT was significantly longer in the training group (MD = 83.32, 95%CI 46.73 to 119.91, Z = 4.46, P < 0.00001).

Conclusions: Our meta-analysis shows that intensity strength training, including strength training, balance task-specific training, and upper-body exercise training in patients after hip fracture, is superior to general exercises in improving BBS, SF-36 physical function score and 6MWT.