A Hip fracture, to put it in simple words are cracks in the top of the thigh bone (femur) where it connects the pelvis socket (acetabulum) to form the hip joint. The crack normally happens due to a fall or a direct blow to the hip.
In this blog, Dr. Aashish Arbat a globally applauded hip replacement surgeon explains the types, symptoms and treatment of hip fractures.
Contents
Hip Fracture: What is it?
A Hip fracture is a crack in the upper part of the femur, the upper bone of the thigh that ranges from hip to knee. This is major damage, which with complications may be dangerous. Some hip fractures mentioned by the most acclaimed Orthopedic Doctor in Pune are more serious than others, but most are treated with surgery.
If your hip is broken, you will most likely experience hip fracture symptoms.
Hip Fracture Symptoms
Signs of a hip crack include:
- Inability to move instantly after falling
- Excessive pain in the hip
- Trouble in walking
- Toughness in the hip area
- Inflammation and bruising in the hip
- Abnormality in the leg on the affected side
- Shorter leg on the affected hip side
Dr. Aashish Arbat a hip replacement surgeon in Pune explains how a hip crack increases the danger of mortality and the several factors that place an older adult at hazard of death following a cracked hip. The risk is high when you have the worst type of hip fracture. It is always suggested to consult an orthopedic doctor at the initial stage.
Why is a Hip Fracture so Dangerous?
A hip crack is more common in older people. This can cut a person’s ability to live independently and possibly shorten their life. If you are aged and have a hip breakage, reduced mobility can cause blood clots in the legs or lungs, bed sores, and the loss of muscle mass (which increases the chances of falls and re-injury).
When it comes to hip fractures, don’t delay! Remember this needs prompt medical attention. It is important to consider that timely intervention and appropriate care suggestively influence recovery.
Hip Fracture Treatment
Surgery usually works well. The process usually involves prompt surgery along with a combination of medication, therapy, self-care and proper nutrition.
Dr. Aashish Arbat, a trusted hip replacement doctor in Pune, is known for using advanced technology for joint replacement. Being the best joint replacement surgeon in Mumbai, he specializes in delivering personalized, quality care to each patient to return them to normal life safely and quickly. Recovery from a hip rupture depends on the type of hip fracture a person has.
Hip Fracture Types
The most familiar types of hip fractures are:
- Femoral neck fracture: This happens one to two inches from the hip joint. These breakages are common among older adults and can be connected to osteoporosis. This kind of fracture may lead to a complication because the break usually cuts off the blood flow to the head of the femur which forms the hip joint.
- Intertrochanteric hip fracture: This occurs three to four inches from the hip joint. This type of rupture does not disturb the blood supply to the bone and may be easier to repair.
Hip fracture surgery is a common approach, particularly among older adults, to repair a broken hip.
Hip Fracture Surgery
Internal Fixation: The process involves using metal plates, screws, or rods to grip the cracked bone together while it rebuilds. It’s frequently used when the bones can be correctly aligned.
- Partial Hip Replacement: In this procedure, the surgeon substitutes the injured part of the hip with a metal prosthesis. This is typically done if the ends of the splintered bone are dented or out of place.
- Total Hip Replacement: The surgeon in this case replaces both the upper femur and the socket in the pelvic bone with non-natural parts. It’s a good choice if the joint has been injured by arthritis or another injury.\
A hairline fracture is a tiny crack in a bone that often happens because of overuse or repetitive activity. It usually takes 6 to 8 weeks to recover. Are you looking to know more about hairline hip fracture treatment? Read on.
- Avoid activities that can worsen the injury for around one and a half months.
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) practice
- Taking over-the-counter pain killers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Using crutches to lessen stress on the cracked bone during movement
- Relief through heat and ice packs
FAQs
Is There Hip Fracture Treatment Without Surgery?
Yes, there are some cases where non-surgical approaches may be considered like specific therapies and devices that help relieve pain and stop further injury.
Can I Walk Again After Hip Surgery?
Yes. You can walk again after a hip fracture surgery. The time of repossession depends on the nature of your breakage. Bone healing, muscle strength, and full retrieval may take nearly 3 to 6 months.
