Hip Fracture: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

A hip fracture is a serious injury that can have life-altering consequences, especially for older adults. Understanding how hip fractures occur, their symptoms, and available treatments can help patients and caregivers make informed decisions about care and recovery.

At Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville, our experienced orthopaedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating hip fractures sustained from falls, stress fractures, or trauma-related injuries. Book your appointment at our office in Zanesville, Ohio, today!

Anatomy of the Hip Joint

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the femoral head (the ball) to the acetabulum (the socket) of the pelvis. This structure allows for a wide range of motion while supporting the body’s weight during activities like walking, running, and standing.

The femoral neck, the narrow portion of bone between the femoral head and the main shaft of the femur, is particularly prone to fractures. Femoral neck fractures can be serious, as they often disrupt blood flow to the femoral head, increasing the risk of complications such as bone death (avascular necrosis).

What is a Hip Fracture?

A hip fracture is a break in the upper portion of the femur, typically occurring in the femoral neck or intertrochanteric region (the area just below the femoral neck). There are several types of hip fractures, including:

Femoral neck fractures – These fractures occur just below the femoral head and can be either non-displaced (where the bone remains aligned) or displaced femoral neck fractures (where the bone is completely separated). Displaced femoral neck fractures often require hip surgery to restore stability.
Intertrochanteric fractures – These occur between the femoral neck and the shaft of the femur and are usually treated with metal screws, plates, or rods.
Subtrochanteric fractures - These occur in the upper part of the shaft below the greater and lesser trochanters.
Femoral head fractures - Occurring in the ball of the femur.

Causes of a Hip Fracture

Most hip fractures occur due to falls, particularly in older adults with weakened bones. However, other risk factors can increase the risk of a broken hip, including:

Osteoporosis – Weakened bones are more susceptible to fractures.
Age-related muscle weakness and balance issues – Older adults are more prone to falls.
Chronic conditions – Medical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, or arthritis can affect mobility and balance.
Medications – Some medications can cause dizziness, increasing fall risk.
High-impact trauma – Car accidents and sports injuries can cause hip fractures in younger individuals.
Stress fractures – Occur from repetitive strain, particularly in athletes or those with metabolic bone disorders.

Symptoms of a Hip Fracture

Hip fracture symptoms can be severe and should be evaluated immediately. The most common symptoms include:

If a broken hip is suspected, seeking immediate medical care is essential to prevent complications such as blood clots, infections, and long-term loss of mobility.

Doctor’s Examination

To diagnose a hip fracture, doctors will perform a physical examination and order imaging tests. These tests may include:

X-rays – The primary diagnostic tool for detecting hip fractures.
MRI or CT scan – Used when a fracture is suspected but not visible on X-rays, particularly in cases of stress fractures.

Treatment for a Hip Fracture

Most hip fractures require hip fracture surgery to restore function and prevent complications. The type of hip fracture treatment depends on the location and severity of the fracture, as well as the patient’s overall health.

Internal Fixation

To treat a femoral neck fracture, sometimes metal screws, rods, or plates are used to stabilize the bone. This option is typically best for younger patients with strong bone density.

Partial or Total Hip Replacement

A hip replacement may be needed to treat a severely displaced femoral neck fracture. In a total hip replacement, both the femoral head and acetabulum are replaced with artificial components. In a partial hip replacement, only the femoral head is replaced. This procedure is often recommended for older adults to restore mobility and reduce pain.

Non-Surgical Treatment

In rare cases, non-surgical treatment may be an option, particularly for patients who are too frail for surgery. This may involve bed rest, pain management, and physical therapy. However, prolonged immobility increases the risk of complications such as blood clots and pneumonia.

Recovery After Hip Fracture Surgery

Recovery from hip surgery varies based on the patient’s overall health, the type of procedure performed, and commitment to rehabilitation. Most patients require physical therapy to regain mobility and strength. Key components of recovery include:

Early movement – Patients are encouraged to start moving as soon as possible to prevent complications.
Pain management – Medications help control discomfort during recovery.
Physical therapy – Strengthening exercises improve mobility and stability.
Home modifications – Installing grab bars, using assistive devices, and removing trip hazards can reduce fall risks.

Most patients take several months to recover fully, though some regain independence sooner with proper rehabilitation.

Reducing the Risk of Hip Fractures

While not all hip fractures can be prevented, taking steps to improve bone health and reduce fall risks can lower the chances of a broken hip. Recommendations include:

Maintaining bone health – Calcium and vitamin D support bone strength.
Exercise – Weight-bearing activities help maintain bone density and muscle strength.
Fall prevention – Using walking aids, installing grab bars, and improving home lighting can reduce fall risks.
Regular health checkups – Managing conditions such as osteoporosis can lower fracture risk.

Expert Hip Fracture Treatment in Zanesville

If you or a loved one has suffered a hip fracture, the experienced team at Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville is here to help. Our skilled orthopaedic surgeons specialize in treating hip fractures sustained from falls, stress fractures, and trauma.

We offer advanced treatment options, including hip fracture surgery and hip replacement, to restore mobility and improve quality of life. Contact our office in Zanesville, OH, today to schedule a consultation!

Medically reviewed by Benjamin R. Pulley, MD, FAAOS

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