The ProBUS study: optimalization of rehabilitation after an acute hip fracture in older adults.

Hip fractures are common injuries in older adults and often lead to decreased health status and quality of life of patients. Only half of the patients regain their pre-fracture functional level and 24% dies within the following year. The number of hip fractures is expected to rise sharply due to the ageing population. Therefore, targeting modifiable risk factors such as osteoporosis and sarcopenia are of great importance.

A high protein diet and resistance exercise may be beneficial to mitigate the age-related decline of the musculoskeletal system. Other studies have shown that frail, sarcopenic, or older adults with a low protein intake may benefit from a combined intervention. However, evidence is lacking in the rehabilitation setting.

Therefore, the ProBUS study will investigate the effects, costs and cost-effectiveness of a high protein diet and resistance exercise training for 3 months on bone and muscle health and quality of life in older adults recovering from an acute hip fracture compared to usual care. A trial will be conducted with 102 patients assigned to either the intervention or usual care.

It is hypothesized that the intervention improves bone health, physical performance, muscle mass and nutritional status. This leads to a higher quality of life of patients and their relatives. Also, improved rehabilitation and faster recovery reduces costs and need for home care.