A Hip Fracture occurs when the upper part of the femur breaks near the hip joint. These fractures can significantly affect mobility, independence, and overall quality of life. Hip fractures are considered a medical emergency because they often require prompt surgical treatment and early rehabilitation to reduce complications and improve recovery outcomes.

Older adults are at greater risk due to:

• Osteoporosis
• Reduced balance
• Muscle weakness
• Increased fall risk

Younger individuals may sustain hip fractures through:

• Motor vehicle accidents
• Sports injuries
• High-impact trauma

Following surgery or conservative management, physiotherapy plays a vital role in restoring walking ability, improving strength, reducing pain, and helping patients safely return to daily activities.

At Magnum Physiotherapy, we provide evidence-based rehabilitation programs tailored to each patient's stage of recovery and functional goals.

Anatomy Involved

Hip Joint

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint consisting of:

Femoral Head

The ball-shaped upper end of the femur.

Acetabulum

The socket of the pelvis that receives the femoral head.

Proximal Femur

The upper portion of the thigh bone where most hip fractures occur.

Femoral Neck

Located just below the femoral head.

A common site for hip fractures.

Intertrochanteric Region

The area between the greater and lesser trochanters.

Subtrochanteric Region

Located just below the trochanters.

Surrounding Structures

• Hip muscles
• Tendons
• Ligaments
• Blood vessels
• Nerves

These structures can also be affected following injury or surgery.

Types of Hip Fractures

Femoral Neck Fracture

Occurs just below the femoral head.

May disrupt blood supply to the femoral head, increasing the risk of complications.

Intertrochanteric Fracture

Occurs between the greater and lesser trochanters.

One of the most common hip fracture types.

Subtrochanteric Fracture

Occurs below the trochanters.

Often associated with high-energy trauma or weakened bone.

Stress Fracture of the Hip

Small cracks in the bone resulting from repetitive stress.

More common in:

• Athletes
• Military personnel
• Individuals with osteoporosis

Common Symptoms

• Severe hip pain
• Groin pain
• Inability to bear weight
• Difficulty walking
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Shortened leg
• Outward rotation of the affected leg
• Loss of mobility

Symptoms typically occur immediately after injury.

Causes & Risk Factors

Falls

The most common cause of hip fractures in older adults.

Osteoporosis

Weakens bone strength and increases fracture risk.

High-Energy Trauma

Examples include:

• Motor vehicle accidents
• Sports injuries
• Significant fall

Risk Factors

• Advanced age
• Osteoporosis
• Previous fractures
• Balance disorders
• Muscle weakness
• Vision impairment
• Certain medications
• Neurological conditions

Conditions Associated with Hip Fractures

• Osteoporosis
• Falls
• Balance Disorders
• Arthritis
• Parkinson's Disease
• Stroke
• Frailty Syndrome

Diagnosis

Prompt diagnosis is essential.

Clinical Examination

A healthcare provider assesses:

• Pain location
• Ability to bear weight
• Leg position
• Functional limitations

Imaging Studies

X-rays

Primary imaging method used to confirm a fracture.

CT Scan

May be used when fracture details are unclear.

MRI

Useful for detecting occult or stress fractures not visible on X-rays.

At Magnum Physiotherapy, we assess:

• Mobility
• Strength
• Balance
• Gait
• Functional limitations

Medical Management

Most hip fractures require surgery.

Surgical Options

Internal Fixation

Uses:

• Screws
• Plates
• Rods

To stabilize the fracture.

Hemiarthroplasty

Replacement of the femoral head.

Total Hip Replacement

May be performed in selected cases.

Non-Surgical Management

Rarely used but may be considered when:

• Surgery is not medically appropriate
• Fractures are stable

Treatment at Magnum Physiotherapy

Rehabilitation begins as soon as medically appropriate after injury or surgery.

Phase 1: Early Recovery

Goals

• Reduce pain
• Improve mobility
• Prevent complications
• Promote safe movement

Interventions

• Bed mobility training
• Transfer training
• Walking assistance
• Breathing exercises

Phase 2: Restore Range of Motion

Focuses on:

• Hip mobility
• Joint flexibility
• Functional movement patterns

Exercises are progressed safely according to healing guidelines.

Phase 3: Strengthening

Targets:

• Hip muscles
• Gluteal muscles
• Quadriceps
• Core muscles

Improved strength supports walking and daily function.

Phase 4: Balance & Gait Training

Focuses on:

• Walking mechanics
• Balance improvement
• Fall prevention
• Functional mobility

Assistive devices may be incorporated as needed.

Phase 5: Return to Independence

Includes:

• Stair training
• Functional strengthening
• Community mobility training
• Recreational activity progression

Advanced Physiotherapy Treatments

Depending on patient needs:

• Manual Therapy
• Therapeutic Exercise
• Gait Retraining
• Balance Rehabilitation
• Functional Mobility Training
• Fall Prevention Programs

Benefits of Physiotherapy After Hip Fracture

• Restores mobility
• Improves walking ability
• Increases strength
• Enhances balance
• Reduces fall risk
• Promotes independence
• Improves confidence
• Supports safe recovery
• Enhances quality of life
• Facilitates return to daily activities

Recovery & Prognosis

Recovery varies depending on:

• Age
• Fracture type
• Surgical procedure
• Overall health
• Participation in rehabilitation

Typical Recovery Timeline

Initial Healing

• Approximately 6–12 weeks

Functional Recovery

• Several months

Some individuals may continue improving for up to a year after injury.

Early rehabilitation significantly improves outcomes.

Potential Complications

• Blood clots
• Infection
• Joint stiffness
• Muscle weakness
• Reduced mobility
• Balance impairments
• Falls
• Nonunion
• Avascular Necrosis (especially femoral neck fractures)

Proper rehabilitation helps reduce these risks.

Prevention Tips

• Maintain bone health
• Treat osteoporosis
• Participate in strength and balance exercises
• Use assistive devices when appropriate
• Improve home safety
• Have regular vision assessments

When Should You Seek Immediate Medical Attention?

Seek urgent medical care if you experience:

• Severe hip pain after a fall
• Inability to stand or walk
• A shortened or rotated leg
• Significant swelling or bruising
• Sudden loss of mobility

Prompt treatment can improve recovery and reduce complications.

Why Choose Magnum Physiotherapy?

At Magnum Physiotherapy, we specialize in orthopedic rehabilitation and post-surgical recovery. Our personalized Hip Fracture rehabilitation programs combine evidence-based physiotherapy, strengthening exercises, gait training, balance rehabilitation, and fall prevention strategies to help patients regain mobility, independence, and confidence.