A hip fracture is more than just a broken bone; it is a serious injury that can impact your mobility, independence, and quality of life. Most often caused by falls or accidents, hip fractures typically require surgery and a structured recovery plan. At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, we understand how overwhelming this injury can be. That’s why our team of experts provides you with advanced treatment options and personalized recovery plans to help you get back on your feet as safely and quickly as possible.
What is a Hip Fracture?
A hip fracture refers to a break in the upper portion of the femur (thigh bone) near the hip joint. As the longest and strongest bone in the body, the femur typically requires significant force, such as a fall, car accident, or other trauma, to break it. For patients with conditions that can affect bone health, such as advanced age, osteoporosis, or chronic health problems, hip fractures can occur with a simple fall from standing. Most hip fractures require surgical intervention to repair, and recovery can be extensive. It is important to understand that hip fractures are serious and potentially life-altering injuries, especially for older adults.
Types of Hip Fractures?
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, where the rounded head of the femur fits into the socket of the pelvis. A hip fracture involves any break in the upper part of the femur and is categorized based on the specific location of the break.
- Femoral Neck Fracture: The femoral neck connects the femoral head to the long shaft of the thigh bone. This is the most common site for hip fractures, particularly in older adults.
- Intertrochanteric Fractures: This type of break occurs between two bony projections (the greater and lesser trochanters) just below the femoral neck. These areas are key attachment points for muscles and tendons around the hip.
“The goal of any treatment is early mobilization and weight bearing. I want to get people as close to the quality of life they had prior to the accident.” says Dr. Patrick Laboe, an orthopedic trauma surgeon who specializes in acute fractures and traumatic injuries.
What are Hip Fracture Symptoms?
The most common hip fracture symptoms include falling and being unable to move/get up; others include:
- Groin pain that can radiate to the knee
- Inability to bear weight
- Severe hip pain
- Not being able to move your hip or leg
- Shortening and rotation of the leg
What Can Cause Hip Fractures?
It usually takes a trauma to break your hip, such as a slip or fall. The most common causes of hip fractures include:
- Low energy fall from ground level or standing.
- Falls from ladders or step stools
What are the Risk Factors?
While anyone can experience trauma that results from a hip fracture, certain individuals are at a higher risk, including:
- Adults over the age of 65
- People with health conditions that weaken their bones, such as osteoporosis or osteopenia, diabetes, and chronic kidney failure
- Females (more likely to develop osteoporosis)
Older adults and individuals with weakened bones may sustain a fracture from a small slip or fall. Sometimes, even while performing daily activities. Any medical condition that affects balance, coordination, or walking can increase the risk of hip fractures. Examples include:
- Parkinson’s disease
- Vertigo
- Gait abnormalities
- Chronic health conditions
How Do Healthcare Providers Diagnose a Hip Fracture?
To diagnose a hip fracture, your healthcare provider will start with a physical exam and then confirm the injury using imaging tests. These may include:
What Are the Treatment Options for a Hip Fracture?
Surgery is almost always required to repair a fractured hip. The specific type of procedure depends on factors like the location and severity of the break, your age, and overall health. Common surgical treatments include:
- Hip Replacement (Hip Arthroplasty): Most common for patients over 65. This involves replacing part or all the damaged hip joint. You may receive a partial or total hip replacement depending on the fracture type.
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): In this procedure, your surgeon realigns the broken bones and secures them using metal screws, plates, or an intramedullary nail.
What is the Recovery Time for a Fractured Hip?
Recovery timelines vary from patient to patient, depending on factors like age, overall health, and the type of surgery performed. The goal is early mobilization. Most individuals will need inpatient rehab or assistance from a skilled nursing facility before they go home to ensure they can go about their daily tasks without help. Most people experienced some initial swelling and discomfort, but pain generally improved within a few weeks. Regaining full strength and mobility may take several months to up to a year. Following your care team’s instructions, including physical therapy and at-home exercises, is key to a successful recovery. We will also schedule regular follow-up appointments for four to six months to monitor progress and set realistic goals.
Contact Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics Today
A hip fracture doesn’t have to define your future. At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, we offer expert surgical care and comprehensive recovery at our location in Greenwood, IN. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin the path toward better mobility.
