Hip Fracture Healing

Hip fractures occur most often as a result of a fall in elderly women who have osteoporosis. Osteoporosis makes the bones weaker and more susceptible to breaking. Symptoms of a hip fracture include severe pain, bruising, swelling or stiffness in your hip. You may not be able to stand on your leg and your leg might turn outward or inward in an abnormal way. If any of these symptoms occur after you fall or bump your hip, call 911 for immediate help.

Surgery

• Surgery is often needed for a hip fracture to heal properly. If the bones are out of alignment then surgery is probably required. Sometimes, hip fractures don't move the bone out of line, or the bones can be pushed back into place. In those instances, the fracture will usually heal without surgery. An x-ray will be taken to determine the severity of your fracture and the best way to treat it. A hip fracture is serious and complications can arise from surgery, especially in the elderly. Prolonged bed rest for recovery can lead to blood clots, bed sores, muscle wasting and post surgical infection.

Bed Rest

• Bed rest and physical therapy can also help heal a hip fracture. You may need to stay in the hospital or you might be able to return home if you have assistance around the house. Most people stay in the hospital for one to two weeks and may be sent to a rehabilitation center upon discharge. You will require painkillers while your hip mends itself and you may need traction. Physical therapy weight bearing exercises will help your hip heal faster and make your bones stronger.

Precautions

• Use a cane to bear part of your weight while your hip fracture is healing. Follow your doctor's orders and complete your physical therapy treatments as ordered even after you are sent home from the hospital. Wear shoes that fit well and have flat soles so you do not trip while walking. Remove small area rugs from your home and be careful of wet floors. Install grab bars next to your bathtub so you can steady yourself when you get in and out of the tub. Apply traction strips in your shower and tub to keep from slipping.

  Avoid rigorous activity that requires climbing stairs or heavy lifting while your fracture is healing. Do not use step stools. Buy a reach extender or have someone help you reach high objects. Avoid recliners until your hip has fully healed as returning to an upright position can put strain and stress on your fracture.