Hip Fractures Diagnosed and Treated by Orthopedic Surgeons in Baltimore

A fracture of the hip occurs at the upper most portion of the femur (thighbone). Hip fractures are most common in people over the age of 65 who have experienced a fall. Other factors that can increase a person’s chance of a hip fracture are, osteoporosis, lack of exercise, not getting enough calcium or Vitamin D, being underweight, and excessive drinking or smoking. Hip fractures also occur as a result of a serious injury, such as a car crash or falling from a great height.

The most common signs of hip fracture are:

• Extreme pain in the groin
• Inability to walk or stand without assistance
• Swelling and bruising around the hip
• General pain in the leg, hip, groin or buttock that may not be severe

After a physical exam of the hip, an X-ray is the most common method to diagnose a hip fracture. However, if the fracture is small or hard to see, a doctor may recommend an MRI or CT scan to get a better view.

Treatment for hip fracture may depend on several factors:

• The age and overall health of the patient
• The type of fracture (femoral neck, intetrochanteric, greater trochanter or subtrochanteric)
• The severity of the fracture

Most hip fracture patients will need hip surgery to repair the bone. Pins, rods, screws or plates are often used to repair the hip during surgery. In severe cases, a doctor might recommend partial or total hip replacement.

Physical therapy is often prescribed as part of the recovery process to improve range of motion and overall health of the hip.