2009-11-06 15:28:01 -

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The femur, or thigh bone, connects to the pelvis at the hip joint. Injuries commonly occur in this area, particularly to people who are elderly. The injuries, typically fractures, can occur spontaneously or from minor trauma. In the U.S., 0ver 200,000 hip fractures occur every year. 50% of those occur in people age 80 or over. Both men and women

are affected.

Causes of Hip Fracture


Hip fractures most commonly occur from trauma. Underlying diseases that weaken the bone, such as osteoporosis or metastatic cancer, may increase the probability of suffering a hip fracture.

Signs and Symptoms of Hip Fracture

You should immediately consult your doctor if after a fall

* you have pain in the hip region
* you can not lift your limb straight in the air

If the above two conditions are present together there is a high probability that you have fractured your hip.

In young people this fracture is caused by high velocity trauma (road traffic accidents, industrial accidents, fall from height). With the global increase in the elderly population patients of hip fracture are going to increase. Therefore it is important to know about this injury.

On reaching the hospital you will be

* questioned and gently examined
* given a pain killer to reduce pain
* your limb will be splinted (by traction)
* if your blood pressure is low IV fluids will be given

Hip fracture can be of two types depending on which part of the upper end of femur bone is fractured. These types are

1. Fracture Neck Femur

2. Intertrochanteric Fracture

Hip fractures will produce pain, swelling and tenderness over the hip joint. The pain may radiate into the groin or low back. The pain may become markedly worse when moving the leg or attempting to walk. The area may appear bruised and have a deformed appearance.

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