A hip fracture is a serious injury that occurs when the upper part of the thigh bone (femur) breaks near the hip joint. Older adults are more likely to suffer hip fractures, especially those with osteoporosis, an underlying condition that weakens and weakens the bones. Traumatis, like a fall, a car accident, or a sports injury, can also lead to hip fractures.
Falls, especially from standing height or lower, are the leading cause of hip fractures in older adults. Poor vision, balance problems, medication side effects, or environmental hazards may also contribute to hip fractures.
Osteoporosis, which makes the bones more prone to breaking with minimal force
Cancer, which can weaken the bones or spread to the bones
Stress fractures, which are small cracks in the bone that develop over time due to repeated stress or overuse
Infection, which can damage the bone tissue or cause inflammation in the joint
The main symptom of a hip fracture is severe pain in the hip or groin area, which may radiate to the lower back or leg. The pain may worsen with movement or weight-bearing. Other symptoms of a hip fracture include:
Swelling, bruising, or tenderness around the hip
Difficulty standing, walking, or moving the leg
Shortening or outward rotation of the injured leg
A visible deformity or bump in the hip area
A hip fracture is an emergency that requires immediate attention. A doctor will ask about the symptoms of a hip fracture, as well as any medical conditions or medications that may affect bone health. A doctor will also examine the hip and leg for signs of fracture, such as swelling, bruising, or deformity. X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans will be ordered by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type and location of the fracture.
Treatment options for a hip fracture depend on the severity and location of the fracture, the patient's age and health, as well as the doctor's preference. Treatment aims to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent complications. The available options include:
It involves repairing or replacing a broken bone with metal screws, rods, plates, or artificial joints. Most hip fractures require surgery, since it can reduce the risk of infection, blood clots, bedsores, and pneumonia. Surgery is usually performed within 24 to 48 hours of the injury, unless there are medical reasons for delaying it.
The bone is kept in place while it heals by using traction, braces, or casts. In general, nonsurgical treatment is reserved for patients who are too frail or sick to undergo surgery, or those whose fractures are very minor and can be healed without surgery. The risk of complications in nonsurgical treatment is greater, such as malunion, nonunion, and avascular necrosis (death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply).
In order to manage pain, prevent infection, reduce blood clot risk, or slow down bone loss, patients take painkillers, antibiotics, blood thinners, or bone-strengthening medicines. As part of nonsurgical treatment or before, during, or after surgery, medication can be administered.
In rehabilitation, mobility, strength, balance, and independence are improved through physical therapy, occupational therapy, or assistive devices. A patient may start rehabilitation as soon as possible after the injury, and it may last for several weeks or months, depending on their progress and goals.
The best way to prevent hip fractures is to prevent falls and maintain good bone health. Some of the preventive measures include:
Exercising regularly, especially weight-bearing and balance exercises, to improve muscle strength, bone density, and coordination
Eating a balanced diet, rich in calcium and vitamin D, to support bone growth and repair
Taking supplements or medications, as prescribed by the doctor, to prevent or treat osteoporosis or other bone conditions
Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can weaken the bones and impair balance
Wearing appropriate footwear, clothing, and protective gear, to reduce the risk of slipping, tripping, or injuring the hip
Making the home environment safe and accessible, by removing clutter, securing rugs, installing handrails, using nonslip mats, and improving lighting
Using assistive devices, such as walkers, canes, or grab bars, to aid mobility and stability
Seeking medical attention, if there are any signs or symptoms of a hip fracture, such as pain, swelling, or deformity
The above-mentioned tips can help you avoid hip fractures and improve your chances of recovering from one. Hip fractures can affect the quality of life and increase the risk of mortality.
