Hip Fracture

A hip fracture is a break in the upper portion of the femur (thighbone). Most hip fractures occur in elderly patients whose bones have become weakened by osteoporosis. When a hip fracture occurs in a younger patient, it is typically the result of a high-energy event, such as a fall from a ladder or vehicle collision.

The most common types of hip fractures are:

Femoral neck fracture. A femoral neck fracture happens 1 to 2 inches from your hip joint. This type of fracture is common among older adults and can be related to osteoporosis. This type of fracture may cause a complication because the break usually cuts off the blood supply to the head of the thighbone, which forms the hip joint.

Intertrochanteric hip fracture. An intertrochanteric hip fracture happens 3 to 4 inches from your hip joint. This type of fracture does not usually interrupt the blood supply to your bone and may be easier to repair.

Most hip fractures fall into these two categories in relatively equal numbers. Another type of fracture, called a stress fracture of the hip, may be harder to diagnose. This is a hairline crack in the thighbone that may not involve your whole bone. Overuse and repetitive motion can cause a stress fracture. The symptoms of this injury may mimic those of tendonitis or muscle strain.

What are the symptoms of a hip fracture?

Symptoms of a hip fracture typically come on suddenly. But they can appear gradually and worsen with time. Signs of a hip fracture include:

● Pain: Usually, hip pain is severe and sharp. But it can also be mild or achy. Most people feel pain in the thigh, outer hip, pelvis and groin area. Pain may radiate down your buttock to your leg (sciatica). You may also feel pain in your knee.

● Limited mobility: Most people with a hip fracture can’t stand or walk. Sometimes, it may be possible to walk, but it’s extremely painful to put weight on the leg.

● Physical changes: You may have a bruise on your hip. One of your legs may appear shorter than the other. The hip might look like it’s out of position, twisted or rotated.

What causes a hip fracture?

Most hip fractures result from an accident, such as a fall or car crash. Athletes, especially long-distance runners, can fracture a hip with repeated use (stress fracture).

In older people, hip fractures can result from a minor fall or from twisting or pivoting suddenly. People with osteoporosis can break a hip doing everyday activities such as walking or getting out of a chair.

Can hip fractures be treated?

Hip fracture treatment depends on your age, overall health and type of injury. Most hip fractures require surgery within a day or two after the injury. But some people aren’t healthy enough for surgery due to their age or other conditions.

Your provider will recommend the most appropriate treatment for you, which may include:

● Surgery: Most hip fractures need surgical repair. There are several hip surgery techniques. Your provider may use metal screws, nails or plates to secure the bones and keep them in place.

● Hip replacement: Depending on the type of injury, you may need a partial or total hip replacement. After hip replacement surgery, your provider may recommend that you recover in a rehabilitation facility.

● Physical therapy (PT): Your physical therapist will create a PT program to help you regain movement, flexibility and strength. If you had a hip replacement, special exercises after hip replacement surgery can significantly improve your range of motion.

● Medications: Over-the-counter and prescription pain medications can help you manage pain and reduce inflammation. If you had surgery for a hip fracture, you may receive antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.