Hip Fracture

Hip Fracture

A hip fracture is a serious break in the upper portion of the thigh bone (femur), usually occurring near the ball-and-socket hip joint.

Symptoms

Severe hip or groin pain
Inability to put weight on the affected leg
Swelling, stiffness, and bruising around the hip area
Turning outward or apparent shortening of the injured leg

Causes

Most hip fractures are caused by a fall directly onto the hip. Severe cases can result from high-impact trauma, such as a motor vehicle collision.

Risk Factors

Osteoporosis (weakened bone density)
Age 65 or older
Balance problems, muscle weakness, or reduced vision
Chronic health conditions impacting bone strength

Diagnosis

A Premier Orthopaedics specialist diagnoses hip fractures through a physical exam, patient history, and diagnostic imaging, primarily X-rays or MRI scans.

Treatment

Treatment almost always requires surgical intervention—such as internal fixation, partial hip replacement, or total hip replacement—followed by personalized physical therapy to regain mobility.

Hip Fracture Care & Treatment in Greater Philadelphia

Hip fractures require prompt medical attention and coordinated orthopaedic care. Delays in treatment can increase the risk of complications, prolong recovery, and limit long-term mobility. With timely diagnosis, expert intervention, and a structured recovery plan, many patients are able to regain function and return to daily activities.

At Premier Orthopaedics, our specialists provide timely, compassionate, and expert hip fracture care to patients in the Greater Philadelphia area. Whether you need an emergency evaluation, surgery, or rehabilitation, our multidisciplinary team is focused on restoring mobility, reducing complications, and supporting your long-term health.

If you or a loved one may have suffered a broken hip, contact our practice today about a customized hip fracture treatment plan that guides you toward the best possible outcome.

Signs and Symptoms of a Hip Fracture

Hip fractures typically present with clear and concerning symptoms. Recognizing these signs and seeking immediate medical attention is critical.

Some of the top hip fracture symptoms include:

Severe pain in the hip or groin, often worsening with movement
Inability to bear weight or stand on the affected leg
Limited range of motion in the hip or leg
Shortening of the affected leg
Outward rotation of the leg or foot
Swelling or bruising around the hip area

In some cases, especially among older adults, pain may initially be mild but worsen over time. Any suspected hip injury following a fall or accident should be treated as a medical emergency.

Prompt and Accurate Hip Fracture Diagnosis

Accurate and timely diagnosis is essential for effective hip fracture treatment. At Premier Orthopaedics, our team works quickly to assess the injury and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Emergency Assessment

When a patient comes to us with a suspected broken hip, we perform a thorough assessment. This evaluation includes reviewing the mechanism of injury, calculating pain levels, and checking for associated injuries.

Advanced Imaging

Diagnostic imaging is critical for confirming a hip fracture and determining its type and severity. X-rays are commonly used as the first imaging step. If needed, advanced imaging, such as CT scans or MRIs, may be ordered to evaluate complex fractures or identify subtle injuries not visible on standard X-rays.

Orthopaedic Evaluation

Once imaging confirms a hip fracture, an orthopaedic specialist evaluates the injury, overall health, mobility status, and any existing medical conditions. This comprehensive approach ensures that treatment decisions support both immediate repair and long-term recovery.

Comprehensive Hip Fracture Treatment Options

Treatment for a hip fracture depends on the fracture type, location, patient health, and activity level. Premier Orthopaedics provides individualized orthopaedic care plans for hip fractures designed to restore function and promote safe recovery.

Surgery for Hip Fractures

Surgery is the most common treatment for hip fractures and is often performed as soon as medically possible. Surgical options may include:

Internal fixation, using screws or plates to stabilize the fracture
Partial hip replacement, replacing the damaged portion of the hip
Total hip replacement, when the joint is severely damaged

Surgical repair stabilizes the bone, reduces pain, and allows earlier movement, which is crucial for preventing complications.

Non-Surgical Care When Appropriate

In select cases, such as stable fractures or patients who are unable to undergo surgery, non-surgical treatment may be recommended. This approach may include pain management, limited weight-bearing, and close medical monitoring.

Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

Rehabilitation is a vital part of hip fracture recovery. Within physical therapy, we will focus on restoring strength, balance, and mobility while reducing the risk of future falls.

Schedule Hip Fracture Care with Premier Orthopaedics

Premier Orthopaedics is proud to provide comprehensive hip fracture treatment in Greater Philadelphia, supported by advanced imaging, state-of-the-art surgical facilities, and a multidisciplinary team dedicated to patient recovery. If you or a loved one has experienced a fall or is showing signs of a broken hip, contact our specialists today and learn how to restore your mobility, independence, and quality of life.

Broken Hip FAQs

How serious is a hip fracture?

A hip fracture is a serious injury that can impact mobility and overall health, particularly in older adults. Prompt treatment greatly improves outcomes.

How soon should surgery be performed?

In most cases, surgery for a broken hip is recommended as soon as the patient is medically stable — often within 24 to 48 hours.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery varies depending on the individual and treatment type. With that in mind, a typical broken hip recovery timeline involves beginning rehabilitation within days of the surgery and continuing to improve over several months.

Will I be able to walk again after breaking a hip?

With proper treatment and rehabilitation, many patients regain the ability to walk and perform daily activities.

How can future fractures be prevented?

Fall prevention strategies, bone health management, and physical therapy can help reduce the risk of future fractures.

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