Nutrition and social support are important for hip recovery

Chiropractic Economics October 28, 2024

This article discusses the importance of vitamin D and calcium for the recovery of a broken hip, as well as the importance of adequate social support. This provides DCs with two areas to focus on when making recommendations for patients with this type of hip fracture risk.

Annual rates of hip fractures are expected to double by 2050. Chiropractic care can help prevent these injuries by improving the balance and function of the hip in older adults, thereby reducing risk. of falling. However, in cases where fractures do occur, research suggests that providing patients with specific nutritional and social support can improve their recovery.

Essential nutrients for hip fracture recovery

Several nutrients are important for bone health. Two of the most notable are vitamin D and calcium. Although research has focused on the importance of this vitamin and mineral for the prevention of fractures, a review published on June 5, 2024, adds that both are also important for healing.

This research was published in the journal Nutrients and called vitamin D and calcium “critical” to healing, making them key factors to focus on after an injury. It goes on to explain that when adequate levels of both are achieved, they can improve recovery outcomes and reduce post-fracture complications.

For vitamin D, researchers recommend working toward a serum 25(OH)D level of 30 ng/mL. Various forms of vitamin D can help achieve this level, including D2, D3 and calcifediol supplements. The target calcium intake is 1,200 mg per day, which can be achieved by adding calcium-rich foods to their diet, taking a supplement or a combination of the two.

The importance of social support

A different review, this one published in Health and Social Care in the Community in 2019, reports that social support is also important for hip recovery. After analyzing 19 studies involving 2,503 people aged 65 and over, the authors found that people with good support had a better recovery process. They also experienced reduced mortality rates.

Social factors examined included the size of people’s social networks, level of participation in social activities and whether they had others they could turn to for help. More social support, including emotional support, was associated with improved physical recovery.

In addition, people who were unsocial before their fracture had a higher risk of early death after the injury. Socioeconomic status also appears to play a role, affecting individuals’ recovery, risk of death and other outcomes, such as pain levels and the ability to live independently.

The role of chiropractic in nutrition and social support

Chiropractic Economics’ 2024 annual survey revealed that 42% of chiropractors offer nutritional services. Providing products and recommendations for vitamin D and calcium intake specifically for hip recovery can be beneficial for patients with this type of injury.

For DCs that do not provide nutrition services, sharing these recommendations with patients gives them the information they need to improve their recovery. Talk to them about adding more foods to their diet that provide vitamin D (fatty fish, eggs and cheese) and calcium (yogurt, milk and cheese). Discuss the value of supplements for filling nutritional gaps.

Also, discuss the importance of social support for hip fracture recovery. Ask if they have a network of people they meet regularly or can call if they need help. If they don’t, connect them with local resources that can help them build and grow a strong social network.

County health and human services departments often have a list of resources. The Administration for Community Living also offers an online search for local resources through its senior care site. Simply enter the patient’s zip code or city and state and it will provide a list of organizations available to support seniors in their area.

Final thoughts on hip fracture recovery

Recovering from a broken hip can be difficult for the elderly, but providing nutritional and social support can help these patients recover better. It can even improve their long-term health, making it a valuable addition to their chiropractic treatment plan.