Several studies have been performed to examine the effectiveness of external hip protectors in reducing the incidence of hip fractures, which is of particular importance to people with spondylitis since osteoporosis and hip problems are both potential complications of the disease. Yet the results of studies on the effectiveness of external hip protectors are inconsistent and controversial. The latest study appeared in the April issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association.

External hip protectors are devices specifically designed to help protect individuals from future fractures during everyday activities. They are usually made with plastic pads or shields that are padded or constructed with foam-type materials, and they fit into specially designed pockets in undergarments or pants.

Dr. Natasja M. van Schoor and colleagues from the Netherlands sought to examine the effectiveness of hip protectors in reducing the incidence of hip fractures in an elderly high-risk population. The 561 participants included elderly people aged 70 years or older who had low bone density and were at high risk for falls. They lived in apartment houses for the elderly, homes for the elderly, and nursing homes in Amsterdam and surrounding areas in the Netherlands. The two-year study also included a follow-up with patients, averaging 70 weeks after study end.

Participants were divided into two groups, each receive written information on bone health and risk factors for falls. One of the groups (called the "intervention group") had to wear the external hip protectors, while the other group (called the "control group") did not.

In the intervention group, 18 hip fractures occurred vs. 20 in the control group. Four hip fractures in the intervention group occurred while an individual was wearing a hip protector. At least four hip fractures in the intervention group occurred late at night or early in the morning.

Researchers concluded that the hip protector studied was not effective in preventing hip fractures. They did not find a statistically significant difference between the intervention group and control group with regard to time of first hip fracture.