Handgrip Strength Thresholds for Predicting Independent Walking Ability After Hip Fracture Surgery in Mexican Elderly: A Prospective Cohort Study

Objective: Hip fractures are commonly associated with disability, and muscle strength is an independent prognostic factor for functionality and walking ability.Handgrip strength (HGS) measurement represents an easy and economical strategy for estimating muscle strength and establishing a functional prognosis in elderly patients with hip fractures.Currently, there are no HGS thresholds in the Mexican population to ascertain functional outcomes, such as independent walking ability.The objective was to determine a cut-off point associated with independent walking ability. Materials and Methods:Prospective cohort study that included hospitalized patients older than 60 years for hip fracture.HGS was measured next day of surgery.Cognitive, functional, and nutritional status were also assessed, as well as comorbidities and walking ability.Logistic regression was employed to confirm the association with independent walking. Results:We included 185 patients, 61 men and 124 women, with 34 individuals (18.3%) capable of independent walking.Participants with high HGS were younger, had lower comorbidity scores, and displayed higher functional pre-fracture scores.The thresholds for predicting independent walking were ≥12 kg for women and ≥19 kg for men.High HGS and lower comorbidity scores were independently associated with independent walking.Conclusion: HGS in the Mexican population predicts independent walking after hip fracture surgery.