Physical Therapy Nest

Diagnosis of Hip Fracture

Hip fractures are typically diagnosed with:

• Medical history review (details of the fall or accident).

• Physical exam to check for leg length differences, swelling, and mobility limitations.

• Imaging:

  • X-rays to confirm the fracture location and severity.

  • CT scan or MRI may be ordered if the fracture is not visible on X-ray.

Treatment for Hip Fracture

Treatment almost always requires surgery (such as fixation with screws/plates or hip replacement), followed by rehabilitation. Physical therapy is critical both after surgery and during long-term recovery. Therapy may include:

• Early mobilization to restore safe walking as soon as possible

• Strengthening exercises for the legs, hips, and core to support recovery

• Balance and gait training to reduce fall risk in the future

• Pain management with heat, ice, or gentle modalities

• Education on safe movement strategies and fall prevention

• Assistive device training (cane, walker) to promote safe mobility during healing

Symptoms of Hip Fracture

Common signs of a hip fracture include:

• Sudden, severe hip or groin pain

• Inability to stand or walk after a fall

• Shortened or outwardly rotated leg on the injured side

• Swelling, bruising, or tenderness around the hip

• Pain that worsens with any movement or weight-bearing

• Loss of mobility and independence without treatment

Prevention of Hip Fracture

Because hip fractures are often life-changing, prevention is essential, especially for older adults:

• Maintain bone health with adequate calcium, vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercise

• Prevent falls by improving home safety (remove tripping hazards, use proper lighting)

• Perform balance training and lower-body strengthening exercises

• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol, which weaken bone density

• Use supportive footwear and mobility aids if needed

• Get regular bone density screenings if at risk for osteoporosis