Broken hip

Broken Hip

A broken hip is a serious injury that occurs when there is a fracture in the upper portion of the femur (thighbone). The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, and a break in this area can be complex and require significant medical intervention.

Causes

A broken hip is most commonly caused by a fall, particularly in older adults. Other causes can include osteoporosis, cancer that has spread to the bones, or high-impact injuries such as car accidents.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a broken hip can include severe pain, inability to move after a fall, and one leg appearing shorter than the other. The affected leg may also turn outward.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a broken hip typically involves a physical examination, x-ray, and sometimes additional imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI.

Treatment

Treatment for a broken hip usually involves surgery, and the type of surgery depends on the location and severity of the fracture. Post-surgery, physical therapy is often necessary to regain strength and mobility.

Prognosis

The prognosis for a broken hip varies depending on the patient's age, overall health, and the nature of the fracture. However, with prompt treatment and proper rehabilitation, many people are able to regain most of their previous function.

See also

• Hip replacement
• Hip fracture surgery
• Physical rehabilitation