Progressive strength training based upon the principle of overloading for a 86-year-old hip fracture patient. A case report

Abstract

Hip fracture can drastically change functional level for the elderly. Between 22% and 75% of hip fracture patients do not recover their previous ambulatory or functional status after the event of fracture. The purpose of this case report is to show how to use the principle of overload in the training of a hip fracture patient, here related to an 86-year old woman. After 36 times of prolonged strength training there was both observed and clinical evidence of an improvement in the patient’s functional status. The program comprised four exercises performed at 80% of maximum. The outcome measurements was the Berg Balance Scale, the sit-to-stand test, Timed Up-and-Go test, maximal gait speed, 6-minute walk test, Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living scale, and the SF-12 health status questionnaire which all showed improvement both at six and nine months follow up. These findings show suggest that a program of progressive and prolonged strength training can help in recovery from hip fracture. It seems to be of importance for this patient to participate in strenuous exercise for overcoming bodily limitations to achieve increased vitality and improved quality of life