A hip fracture may be defined as a breakage of the upper quarter of the bone in the thigh. The forces involved contribute to the extent and severity of the damage. If you have a hip fracture, it is a..
A hip fracture may be defined as a breakage of the upper quarter of the bone in the thigh. The forces involved contribute to the extent and severity of the damage. If you have a hip fracture, it is a severe injury that requires immediate medical attention. Elderly people are at increased risk of hip fracture, because of osteoporosis or weakening of bones. There are three types of hip fracture namely femoral, intertrochanteric and atypical. Femoral hip fracture occurs in the upper part of the femur, right below the femoral head and ball-socket joint. Intertrochanteric fracture occurs a little below the hip joint, but on the upper portion the femur that protrudes. Whereas atypical fracture is rare and occurs in people who have undergone treatments using bisphosphonates for extended periods of time Usually, a hip fracture needs surgical repair and correction and could take months to cure completely. It is therefore essential to maintain the density of the bone and avoid falls.
If you have had a hip fracture, the symptoms are:
- Severe pain in the hip or groin
- Inability in movement after a fall
- Being unable to shift weight on the hip area
- Swelling, stiffness and bruises in the hip area
- Outward turning of the leg near the injured area
The causes of hip fracture could be:
- Poor vision due to age factors
- Balance problems
- Severe impacts like car crashes
- Fall from a height
- Trip hazards
- Twisting injuries
The risk factors for hip fractures are:
- Age over 65 years, especially for women
- Heredity – Family history of osteoporosis
- Low Calcium diets
- Smoking, alcohol and drug abuse
- Incorrect lifestyles leading to weak bones
The preventive measures for hip fracture are:
- Practice safety measures while walking
- Install grab bars in bathrooms and slippery areas
- Consume Calcium rich food
- Exercise moderately and stay fit
- Have a healthy lifestyle
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Our superspecialist doctors provide the highest quality of care through a team-based, doctor-led model. Trained at some of the world's most renowned i..... Continue Reading
