A fractured hip is a serious injury involving a break in the large thigh bone, the femur, near the hip joint. This injury significantly impacts mobility and often raises questions about a person’s ability to move or bear weight. Understanding its nature and implications is important for recognizing the condition’s severity.
Understanding a Fractured Hip
A hip fracture is a break in the upper part of the femur, the thigh bone, near the hip joint. This bone connects the knee to the pelvis. Most hip fractures occur in older adults, often due to weakened bones from osteoporosis. In younger individuals, they typically result from high-energy events like severe falls or accidents.
Fractures are classified based on their specific location on the femur. Femoral neck fractures occur just below the ball of the hip joint. This area can sometimes lead to complications due to potential disruption of blood supply to the femoral head.
Intertrochanteric fractures, common alongside femoral neck fractures, happen slightly lower in the broader region between two bony prominences on the femur. Subtrochanteric fractures occur in the upper shaft of the femur, below these prominences. The location and type of fracture determine the stability of the hip and how much weight-bearing is affected.
The Ability to Walk and Key Symptoms
For most hip fractures, walking or bearing weight on the affected leg is typically impossible or extremely painful. Severe pain in the groin or hip usually prevents any meaningful movement. Any attempt to put pressure on the hip can worsen the fracture and potentially lead to further complications.
However, in some less severe cases, such as stress fractures or non-displaced hairline cracks, an individual might be able to bear partial weight, although with considerable pain. These less obvious fractures can sometimes lead to a delayed diagnosis because movement is still possible.
Beyond severe pain, other key symptoms of a hip fracture include bruising and swelling around the hip area. The injured leg may appear shorter than the other and might be externally rotated or turned outward. Difficulty lifting the leg is also a common indicator of a hip fracture.
Why Immediate Medical Attention is Crucial
Seeking prompt medical evaluation is important if a hip fracture is suspected. Delaying treatment can lead to increased pain and further damage to the bone and surrounding tissues. Prolonged immobility due to an untreated hip fracture can result in serious complications, including blood clots, pneumonia, and pressure sores.
Diagnosis typically begins with a physical examination, where a healthcare provider assesses the symptoms and the position of the hip and leg. Imaging tests are then performed to confirm the diagnosis and provide detailed information about the fracture. X-rays can usually identify most hip fractures. If a fracture is not visible, an MRI or CT scan may be used to detect hairline fractures or provide more detailed images for surgical planning. Early diagnosis and intervention lead to better outcomes and help mitigate the risks associated with delayed treatment.
Treatment and Recovery
Most hip fractures require surgical intervention to stabilize the bone and restore mobility. Surgical options include internal fixation, using screws, plates, or rods to hold fractured bone fragments in place, or partial/total hip replacement, especially if the joint’s blood supply was compromised. Non-surgical approaches are rare, usually reserved for specific fracture types or patients with severe pre-existing health conditions.
Following surgery, immediate post-operative care focuses on pain management and early mobilization to prevent complications. Physical therapy typically begins within 24 hours to encourage movement and prevent blood clots. Rehabilitation is a key component of recovery, involving exercises to regain strength, balance, and mobility.
The recovery timeline varies based on the fracture’s severity, the type of surgery performed, and the individual’s overall health and age. Patients may initially use assistive devices like crutches or a walker for several weeks. Many individuals regain functionality within six to nine months, but complete recovery can take a year or more. Ongoing physical therapy and adherence to a rehabilitation program are important for good outcomes.