Hip Fractures

Diagnosis:

A hip fracture is a break that occurs in the upper portion of the thigh bone, or femur. Hip fractures typically affect adults older than 60 and can be particularly debilitating. Osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, cancer, or stress injuries are factors known to contribute to hip fractures. Hip fractures can be caused by a fall or direct blow to the side of the hip. Sufferers of hip fractures report symptoms of pain above the outer upper thigh or groin area. There are three primary types of hip fracture, based on the location they occur:

Intertrochanteric fracture – An intertrochanteric fracture occurs between the neck of the femur and bony lesser trochanter.

Intracapsular fracture – An intracapsular fracture occurs at the neck and head of the femur, within the joint capsule.

Subtrochanteric fracture – A subtrochanteric fracture occurs 2 ½ inches below the lesser trochanter and is susceptible to breaking in multiple places.

Depending on numerous factors, including the severity of the fracture, age of the patient, and whether or not the fracture was influenced by internal factors such as osteoarthritis, Genesis Orthopedics & Sports Medicine will recommend different treatment options.