A hip fracture is a break in the upper part of the femur (thighbone). While these injuries can happen to anyone, they are most common in older adults with weakened bones. Younger individuals usually experience hip fractures only after high-energy trauma such as a car crash or a fall from significant heights.
What Causes a Broken Hip?
Hip fractures occur for several reasons, including:
- Low-energy falls in older adults
- Osteoporosis, which weakens the bone and increases risk
- High-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle collisions, motorcycle accidents or a fall from height
- Stress fractures in athletes, especially long-distance runners
- Spontaneous fractures in very weak bone, where the break may occur before the fall
In most elderly patients, simple household falls are the most common cause.
Schedule Now with a Hip Specialist
What Are the Symptoms of a Broken Hip?
Common signs include:
- Severe pain in the groin or upper thigh
- Inability to stand or walk
- Inability to lift or move the leg above the knee
- Shortened or externally rotated leg
- Bruising or swelling along the outer hip or thigh
- Pain with any attempt at movement
Some nondisplaced fractures (where the bone remains aligned) may cause less severe pain at first but still require urgent medical care.
Hip Fracture Surgery
Nearly all hip fractures require surgery, ideally within 24–48 hours, to control pain and stabilize the bone.
Treatment depends on the location and severity of the fracture, but surgeons often recommend screws or plates to hold the bone in place. For older adults especially, the best option may be partial or total hip replacement.
Hip Fracture Recovery
Most patients begin standing and walking with assistance the day after surgery. Early mobility is essential to prevent complications like blood clots, pneumonia and skin breakdown.
Recovery may include:
- Pain management, often transitioning quickly to non-opioid medications
- Blood thinners to prevent clots
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy to help with daily activities like dressing and bathing
- X-rays
Some patients can safely return home, while others benefit from short-term rehabilitation depending on mobility and available support at home.
Treat Hip Fractures at OrthoNebraska
Seeking relief from a fractured hip in the Omaha area? At OrthoNebraska, we want to make sure that our patients feel understood, safe and confident to take on an appropriate treatment plan. With proper management, we can help you reduce pain levels and improve quality of life.
