Dear Dr. SerVaas,

I would like to know where I can get gel-filled clothing, pads and accessories that protect hips, arms and legs in case of a fail I do not think it should be necessary to contact a healthcare provider to get the above. I live alone and just want to use the hip padding.

Genevieve Grant
Great Falls, Montana

We hope an enterprising, clever individual will someday invent a wearable airbag system to guard against fall-related injuries. A patent application was filed in 2004 for such a device. In the meantime, you can use your computer to compare and purchase hip pads from KPH, SAFEHIP, HIPS, and HipGuard.

"The bottom line is that hip protectors do reduce the risk of a fall-related hip fracture," says Dr. David Cifu, professor and chair of Virginia Commonwealth University's Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. "There are a variety of companies that make the devices. and no one device seems to work better than others."

Hip pads range in price from about $50 to $200. Data from a recent study of KPH hip pads are expected this spring. As yet, no products are FDA-approved for prevention of hip fractures.

"A proven way to reduce the risk of falling--and there fore the risk of getting a fracture--is to be engaged in daily strengthening and balance exercises," adds Dr. Cifu. "Other strategies include 1) optimize lighting in high-risk areas such as bathrooms. 2) eliminate loose objects on the floor (throw rugs, electrical cords). 3) use an appropriate safety device (cane, walker), and 4) maintain your health (take your medicines the right way, eat appropriately and regularly, avoid weight gain, and see your doctor)."

For the mailing addresses and phone numbers of hip pad manufacturers, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to "Hip Pads," 1100 Waterway Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46202. Readers might also consider visiting a specialty sporting goods store. Thin, energy-absorbing "UltraCrash" Pads are worn by figure skaters between their tights with the waffled side toward the body. Hip padding designed for other athletes and motorcyclists might also be suitable.