20 Things You Should Know About Hip Fractures by Dr. Sharon Orrange/Primary Care Physician: at DailyStrength Doctors and Advisors

Dr. Orrange received her BA in Biology at the University of California, San Diego, and a Masters Degree in Health Sciences at the Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health. She received her MD from the USC Keck School of…

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Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine, Division of Geriatric, Hospital and General Internal Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California

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20 Things You Should Know About Hip Fractures

Posted in Osteoporosis by Dr. Sharon Orrange on Dec 16, 2011

1. Most hip fractures involve a break near the top of the long bone running through the thigh (femur,) near the hip joint.

2. Pain after hip fracture may be felt in the groin or buttock, and possibly the thigh or knee.

3. Flexing or rotating the hip will cause extreme discomfort when you have a hip fracture.

4. Hip fracture usually occurs after a fall or some other trauma.

5. Most hip fractures occur in people older than 65.

6. Osteoporosis is the main risk factor.

7. About 70% of hip fractures occur in women.

8. An x-ray or MRI is used to confirm the diagnosis of hip fracture.

9. Surgery is usually required for repair.

10. Which surgery (“pinning” it to fix it or a total hip replacement) is based on the location of the fracture, patient age, and the surgeon’s expertise.

11. The best way to avoid complications after surgery is to start moving around soon after surgery.

12. You will use a walker, cane or crutches for several months after surgery.

13. Patients on bed rest are at increased risk for infections, bed sores, pneumonia, and blood clots.

14. People who have a hip fracture are significantly more likely to have another.

15. To prevent hip fracture keep bones strong by ensuring adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D.

16. Be physically active to maintain bone strength.

17. If you have osteoporosis talk to your doctor about medicines that prevent bone loss.

18. Prevent falls by clearing hazards such as slippery floors, poor lighting, and cluttered hallways.

19. Wear well-fitting, low-heeled shoes, and use walking aids correctly.

20. Stairways should have handrails.

Stay safe.

- Dr O.

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