What Is A Hip Fracture?
A hip fracture is a break in the upper quarter of the femur (thigh) bone.
The extent of the break depends on the forces that are involved.
The type of surgery used to treat a hip fracture is primarily based on the bones and soft tissues affected or on the level of the fracture.
A hip fracture almost always requires surgical repair or replacement, followed by months of physical therapy.
Taking steps to maintain bone density and avoid falls can help prevent hip fracture.
Causes Of A Hip Fracture:
A hip fracture can occur due to any of the following reasons:
- A severe impact
- A fall from standing height (in older people)
- Standing on the leg and twisting (in case of very weak bones)
Hip fracture following a fall is likely to be a pathological fracture. The most common causes of weakness in bone are:
- Homocysteine, a toxic ‘natural’ amino acid linked to the cause of heart disease.
- Benign or malignant primary bone tumors are rare causes of hip fractures.
- Metastatic cancer deposits in the proximal femur may weaken the bone and cause a pathological hip fracture.
- Infection in the bone is a rare cause of hip fracture.
The following factors increase the likelihood of hip fractures:
- Being a women
- Chronic medical conditions.
- Certain medications.
- Nutritional problems.
- Physical inactivity.
- Tobacco and alcohol use.
Symptoms Of Hip Fractures:
The following symptoms may be exhibited:
- Inability to move immediately after a fall
- Severe pain in the hip or groin
- Inability to put weight on the leg on the side of the injured hip
- Stiffness, bruising and swelling in and around the hip area
- Shorter leg on the side of the injured hip
- Turning outward of the leg on the side of the injured hip
Diagnosis Of Hip Fractures:
The following tests confirm the diagnoses of a hip fracture:
- X-ray
- MRI
- Bone scan
Treatment Of Hip Fractures:
The following treatment options are available:
- Surgery
- Internal repair using screws
- Partial hip replacement
- Total hip replacement
- Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy
- Extended care at home
- Medications
- Bisphosphonates
By : Natural Health News
