The challenges of interpreting efficacy of hip protector pads in fracture prevention in high-risk seniors.

Efficacy of hip protector pads to prevent hip fracture is controversial. This study was done to evaluate two comparable groups for fracture risk. Two matched cohorts of long-term care residents in Canada, assessing the efficacy of hip protector pads. Evaluation included demographics, medications/diagnoses, cognition (Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE)), balance (Berg), bone mineral density (calcaneal ultrasound), falls/injuries at baseline and completion. Of the 58 participants, there were two confirmed hip fractures (8%) in the hip pad (one while wearing the pad) and eight (24%) in the control groups. But baseline demographics showed significant differences between hip pad (25) and control groups (33) in MMSE, Berg and osteoporosis treatment, all being less in the hip pad group. This persisted at completion, with a higher mortality in the hip pad group. Baseline differences predisposed the hip pad group to a higher fracture risk, but there were fewer hip fractures in this group. Small numbers, multifactorial nature of hip fractures and the inability to control for many of these variables in the real world make efficacy of hip protector pads difficult to confirm. Hip protector pads should be offered as part of the osteoporosis management of frail elderly, especially in those unable/unwilling to take pharmacotherapy.