Restoring Mobility and Reducing Fall Risk After a Hip Fracture

A hip fracture can be a life-changing injury, particularly for older adults. Beyond the initial pain and hospitalization, a hip fracture can affect strength, balance, mobility and confidence. Activities that once seemed routine—such as standing from a chair, walking to the bathroom or getting dressed—may suddenly become challenging.

For many patients, inpatient rehabilitation is an important step toward regaining mobility and independence. Physical therapy plays a central role in this process, helping patients rebuild strength, improve balance, practice safe movement and develop the skills needed to navigate daily activities.

During National Physical Therapy Month and Bone and Joint Health Month, Oklahoma City Rehabilitation Hospital recognizes the important role physical therapists play in helping patients overcome the challenges associated with orthopedic injuries and move toward greater independence.

Understanding the Impact of a Hip Fracture

Hip fractures are among the most serious injuries affecting older adults. They can lead to significant changes in mobility and physical function, particularly when a patient spends an extended period with limited movement following an injury or surgery.

Older women are disproportionately affected by hip fractures. Bone loss associated with osteoporosis can weaken bones over time, increasing the risk of fractures from falls or other relatively minor accidents.

The effects of a hip fracture can extend well beyond the injured hip. Patients may experience muscle weakness, reduced endurance, balance problems and difficulty walking. They may also become hesitant to move because of pain or fear of falling again.

Without appropriate intervention, decreased activity can contribute to additional weakness and loss of functional independence. That is why timely, specialized orthopedic rehabilitation can be an important part of the care plan for patients who are medically and functionally appropriate for inpatient rehabilitation.

The Critical Role of Physical Therapy

After a hip fracture, physical therapy may begin with foundational movements and gradually progress as the patient becomes stronger and more stable. Treatment is individualized based on factors such as the patient's current mobility, strength, surgical restrictions, medical condition and functional goals.

Physical therapists may address several key areas.

Building Strength

A hip fracture, surgery and a period of reduced activity can contribute to significant muscle weakness. Physical therapists use targeted exercises to help patients rebuild the strength necessary for standing, walking, transferring and other everyday activities.

Strengthening may focus on the legs, hips and core, while also addressing the overall endurance needed to safely participate in daily routines.

Improving Balance and Stability

Balance can be affected by weakness, changes in mobility and fear of falling. Physical therapists can incorporate balance activities designed to improve stability and help patients become more comfortable with movement.

Improving balance is particularly important because a previous fall can increase anxiety about future falls. Building physical confidence through supervised practice can help patients approach movement with greater assurance.

Practicing Walking

Gait training is another important component of inpatient physical therapy following a hip fracture. Patients may initially require a walker or another assistive device.

A physical therapist can teach patients how to use these devices safely and appropriately while practicing walking on different surfaces and navigating common obstacles. As appropriate, the therapist may gradually modify the level of assistance as the patient's abilities improve.

Improving Transfers and Functional Movement

Getting in and out of bed, standing from a chair and moving between different surfaces are essential daily skills. Physical therapists work with patients on these movements to promote safer techniques and greater independence.

These activities may seem simple, but they require a combination of strength, balance, coordination and judgment. Practicing them in a controlled environment can help patients prepare for everyday life outside the hospital.

Reducing the Risk of Future Falls

Fall prevention is an important part of medical rehabilitation following a hip fracture. A patient who has experienced one fall may have an increased risk of another, making it important to identify factors that can contribute to instability.

Physical therapists can help patients recognize movement challenges and develop strategies for safer mobility. Caregivers can also play an important role by helping create a home environment that supports safe movement.

Some practical fall prevention strategies include:

• Clear pathways: Remove clutter, loose rugs and cords that could cause trips.

• Improve lighting: Keep hallways, stairways and bathrooms well lit, and use nightlights as needed.

• Use assistive devices properly: Follow your healthcare team's guidance for walkers, canes and other devices.

• Wear supportive footwear: Choose well-fitting shoes with good traction.

• Make bathrooms safer: Consider grab bars, nonslip surfaces and other safety equipment.

• Continue recommended exercises: Maintain strength and balance with exercises recommended by your care team.

• Review medications: Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medications that may cause dizziness, drowsiness or other fall-related concerns.

A Team Approach to Medical Rehabilitation

Regaining mobility after a hip fracture involves more than strengthening the injured area. Patients may need support addressing balance, endurance, transfers, walking, self-care and other functional activities.

That is why inpatient medical rehabilitation takes an interdisciplinary approach. Physical therapists work alongside other members of the care team to address the patient's individual needs and help them progress toward functional goals.

Occupational therapists may focus on daily activities and strategies for safely completing tasks at home. Nurses provide ongoing medical care and education, while physicians and other clinical professionals help oversee the patient's overall plan of care.

This coordinated approach allows the patient's medical and functional needs to be addressed together.

Helping Patients Move Forward

A hip fracture can significantly affect mobility and independence. Specialized medical rehabilitation provides patients with the skilled support they need to build strength, improve balance and practice safer movement.

Physical therapy is central to this process, helping patients develop the skills and confidence needed to navigate everyday activities and reduce fall risk.

Contact our team today to learn how OKC Rehab's experienced medical rehabilitation professionals can help patients rebuild strength, improve mobility and work toward greater independence after a hip fracture.