BMJ  2006;332 (11 March), doi:10.1136/bmj.332.7541.0-c

Hip protectors may not be effective

Providing padded hip protectors may not reduce the risk of a hip fracture in elderly people who fall. A systematic review of randomised controlled trials by Parker and colleagues (p 571) found no reduction in hip fractures for elderly people living in institutional care who were provided with a hip protector. None of the studies of those living in their own home showed any benefit. Compliance with wearing hip protectors is poor; the authors conclude that unless this can be improved, benefits will be limited.

Credit: JOHN BIRDSALL

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Relevant Article

Effectiveness of hip protectors for preventing hip fractures in elderly people: systematic review

Martyn J Parker, William J Gillespie, and Lesley D Gillespie
BMJ 2006 332: 571-574. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]