What Is a Hip Fracture?
A hip fracture is a break in the upper portion of the femur (thigh bone) near the hip joint. Hip fractures are serious injuries that commonly occur after falls or trauma and often require prompt medical treatment.
Hip fractures are especially common in older adults due to osteoporosis and decreased bone strength, though they can also occur in younger individuals following high-impact injuries such as motor vehicle accidents or sports trauma.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained orthopedic trauma and hip specialists provide comprehensive fracture care designed to restore mobility, reduce complications, and support safe recovery.
Symptoms of a Hip Fracture
- Severe hip or groin pain
- Difficulty or inability to walk
- Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
- Swelling or bruising around the hip
- Shortening or outward rotation of the leg
- Stiffness and reduced mobility
- Pain that worsens with movement
Causes & Risk Factors
Hip fractures are most commonly caused by trauma or weakened bone structure.
- Falls, especially in older adults
- Osteoporosis or reduced bone density
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Sports or high-impact injuries
- Balance or mobility problems
- Previous fractures or bone disorders
- Aging-related bone weakening
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a detailed evaluation of the hip and lower extremity.
- Physical examination of the hip and leg
- Assessment of mobility, swelling, and alignment
- Evaluation of nerve and blood vessel function
- X-rays to identify fracture location and severity
- CT scans or MRI imaging when needed
Prompt diagnosis is important because early treatment can help reduce complications and improve recovery outcomes.
Treatment Options for Hip Fractures
Non-Surgical Treatment
Some stable or minor fractures may be treated without surgery depending on the patient’s overall health and fracture type. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Limited weight-bearing or bed rest
- Pain management
- Physical therapy and mobility training
- Assistive walking devices
- Monitoring with follow-up imaging
Surgical Treatment
Most hip fractures require surgery to stabilize the bone and restore mobility. Surgical treatment may involve screws, plates, rods, partial hip replacement, or total hip replacement depending on the fracture pattern and severity. Our orthopedic surgeons use advanced surgical techniques designed to support healing and help patients return to safe movement as quickly as possible.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of the fracture, the patient’s health, and the treatment approach used.
- Physical therapy is often essential for restoring mobility and strength
- Walking assistance devices may be needed during recovery
- Surgical recovery may require several months of rehabilitation
- Early movement may help reduce complications after surgery
Our orthopedic team works closely with patients throughout rehabilitation to help restore independence, mobility, and quality of life.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our orthopedic trauma and hip specialists provide expert fracture care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide advanced diagnosis and treatment for hip fractures and other complex orthopedic injuries.
- Experienced orthopedic trauma and hip specialists
- Advanced imaging and fracture evaluation
- Comprehensive surgical and rehabilitation care
- Personalized recovery and mobility plans
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for a hip fracture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of a hip fracture?
Common symptoms include severe hip pain, inability to walk or bear weight, swelling, bruising, and changes in leg position after a fall or injury.
Do all hip fractures require surgery?
Most hip fractures require surgery, though some stable fractures may be managed non-surgically depending on the patient and injury.
How long does it take to recover from a hip fracture?
Recovery timelines vary, but many patients require several months of rehabilitation to regain mobility and strength.
Why are hip fractures more common in older adults?
Osteoporosis and reduced bone density increase fracture risk in older adults, especially after falls.
When should I seek medical attention?
Hip fractures require immediate medical evaluation, especially if severe pain or inability to bear weight occurs after a fall or injury.