Effect of types of proximal femoral fractures on physical function such as lower limb function and Activities of Daily Living

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess physical function such as lower limb function and Activities of Daily Living after surgery for proximal femoral fractures ( unstable medial femoral neck fracture and trochanteric fracture).

METHODS

This study enrolled 68 patients with proximal femoral fractures. Isometric knee extension strength (IKES), the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) hip score, and the number of days required to develop straight leg raising, transfer, and T-caneassisted gait abilities to become independent were assessed. Patients were classified based on the types of proximal femoral fractures, namely unstable medial femoral neck fracture (bipolar hip arthroplasty [BHA] group), stable trochanteric fracture (S group), and unstable trochanteric fracture (US group).

RESULTS

IKES and the JOA hip score were significantly better in the BHA group than in the S and US groups. IKES and the JOA hip score were significantly worse in the US group than in the BHA and S groups. Both transfer and T-cane-assisted gait abilities of patients in the BHA and S groups were indifferent. However, all physical functions were significantly worse in the US group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study results suggested that physical therapists plan the different rehabilitation program for the patients with proximal femoral fractures who were classified into three types, namely unstable medial femoral neck fracture, stable trochanteric fracture, and unstable trochanteric fracture, instead of two types.