Hip Fracture Recovery: Healing, Mobility and Support

Hip fractures can be life-changing, particularly for older adults. Learn about the risks, the recovery process and how the CHI Palm may complement a clinician-directed care plan.

Support Surgical Recovery with Comfort Close at Hand

Discover what other CHI Palm users have tried and explore practical ways to complement professionally directed medical care.

Explore Hip Recovery Protocols

Why Hip Fractures Require Prompt Attention

Women experience more hip fractures, but men over age 65 face a higher risk of death following a hip fracture. One study reported an inpatient mortality rate of 10.2% for men compared with 4.7% for women, and a one-year mortality rate of 37.5% for men compared with 28.2% for women. A fall is not just a mobility issue—it can be a life-threatening event.
Source: Kannegaard et al. doi:10.1007/s11420-007-9074-z

SEEK MEDICAL CARE

A suspected hip fracture is a medical emergency. The CHI Palm is not a substitute for diagnosis, surgery, rehabilitation or other clinician-directed treatment.

Why the CHI Palm Helps

Preclinical research suggests that low-pressure infrasound may support osteogenesis—the formation of new bone. A 2013–2014 rat study using the CHI Infrasound 8 on femoral fractures found that 30-minute sessions twice daily for six weeks were associated with faster radiographic union, higher bone mineral content and density (BMC/BMD), smoother healing and more new bone formation compared with controls.

These findings are consistent with practitioner observations of patients’ before-and-after X-rays. However, animal research and individual reports do not establish that every person will experience the same result.

Read the study: Infrasound Bone Healing Study

CHI Palm: Relief in the palm of your hand.

A Physical Therapist’s Observations

A licensed physical therapist informally observed geriatric patients recovering from hip fractures over a three-year period. The device was directed toward the surgical site from approximately one inch to three feet away for 10–20 minutes once daily over one to two weeks, using the High setting.

The therapist reported that follow-up X-rays appeared to show faster-than-expected healing. Some patients were able to bear weight sooner, experienced less pain, required less pain medication, limped less and slept through the night. The therapist also noted that the patients’ progress and positive attitudes surprised their doctors.

Recommended Use for Fractures and Hip Pain

Use the CHI Palm only as a complement to professional medical care. Follow your healthcare team’s instructions for weight-bearing, wound care, medication, rehabilitation and device use.

Sweep First

Move the device from head to toe for at least three minutes, holding it a few inches from the body. This may help promote relaxation and ease fear or tension.

Direct Application

Apply the device near the fracture site for 15–30 minutes daily, or for 30 minutes twice daily as used in the preclinical study protocol. The device may be used through a cast when permitted by the treating clinician. The “Balance” setting is often used.

Track Your Progress

Users and clinicians have reported pain relief, reduced swelling and unexpectedly rapid healing on follow-up X-rays. Individual results vary, and changes in pain, swelling or mobility should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Relief in the Palm of Your Hand

The CHI Palm’s handheld design, durable construction and protective accessories make it easy to keep close at hand, whether you’re at home or on the go.

Designed to Stay Close at Hand

At home, use the CHI Palm for everyday aches and pains, particularly aching joints and minor injuries, as directed.

Ask your care team whether you may bring the CHI Palm to the hospital. Explain that it helps you feel calmer and more comfortable and that you use it for supportive pain relief. Hospital policies vary, so obtain permission before using any personal device.

CHI Palm Essentials: Protect, Power and Position Your CHI Palm

The CHI Palm’s handheld design and protective accessories make it convenient at home or while traveling. We have you covered with optional batteries, chargers, cables, the CHI Palm Glove, leash, straps and positioning mounts help protect, power and position your device.

Explore CHI Palm Accessories

Additional Reports and Resources