Asymmetry After Hip Fracture: A Multi-factorial Problem

Background and Purpose: Sit-to-stand (STS) and static standing mechanics are related to fall risk and function after hip fracture. Often, these patients avoid weight bearing on the fracture side after rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to use a novel clinically-relevant protocol to examine standing and STS vertical ground reaction force (vGRF) in light of perceptual measures of loading symmetry and muscle torque production in this population. Methods: A person post hip fracture performed 3 different STS conditions and 2 simple load-matching tasks. Motion, force plate, and perceptual data on weight distribution and load were collected. Findings: Standing and STS asymmetry were not explained by strength. A perceptual issue may be limiting performance progress in achieving symmetry. Clinical Relevance: Active task-specific training, augmented by attention to perception of movement, load, or strength, may assist in attaining symmetry in STS. Conclusion: Some patients may benefit when mechanical and perceptual performances are considered together