Recover Strong: Exercise After Hip Fracture or Injury

Hip fractures and major injuries are life‑changing events that can rob older adults of their independence. Falls account for 93% of hip fractures¹, and without proper rehabilitation, many people never fully regain their mobility. Fortunately, research confirms that targeted exercise helps rebuild strength and function following surgery or injury.

Evidence for Home‑Based Rehabilitation

A 2024 meta‑analysis of 21 randomised trials examined home‑based exercise programs after hip fracture surgery. These programs, often involving strength and balance exercises, significantly improved knee extensor strength, balance (Berg Balance Scale), walking ability (Timed Up & Go), and overall physical quality of life². Starting exercise within three months of surgery produced the greatest gains³.

In a separate controlled trial, older adults who began progressive resistance training six months after a hip fracture experienced striking improvements over a 10‑week period. They gained leg strength (effect size 0.79) and improved gait speed, endurance (six‑minute walk distance), and overall physical performance⁴. More participants in the exercise group achieved clinically meaningful gains than those receiving usual care, and no major adverse events occurred⁵.

How to Structure Rehabilitation Exercises

Key components of an exercise physiology program for post‑fracture recovery include:

• Progressive resistance exercises for hip and knee muscles to restore strength

• Balance training to reduce the risk of future falls and improve confidence

• Gait and mobility drills, such as step‑ups, sit‑to‑stands and walking practice, to enhance daily function

• Gradual aerobic conditioning to increase stamina and support heart health

Working with an exercise professional ensures that exercises are safe, properly progressed, and integrated into daily routines. Our team offers both in‑clinic and home‑based options to help older adults reclaim independence and return to the activities they love.

References

1. Restart Exercise Physiology – Falls and Hip Fractures - restartexphys.com.au

2. PMC – Home-Based Exercise After Hip Surgery (Meta‑Analysis) - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

3. PMC – Timing of Exercise Post-Surgery - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

4. PMC – Resistance Training Outcomes After Hip Fracture pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

5. PMC – Safety and Clinical Effectiveness of Post-Hip Fracture Exercise - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov