Fractured Hip

A hip fracture is essentially a break in the upper portion of the thigh bone, known as the femur. This type of fracture occurs near the hip joint and is often referred to as a femoral fracture. It typically involves the top end of the femur, where it connects with the pelvis to form the hip joint.

Above: Soft tissue massage of the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the hip, performed by a specialist therapist.

What is a Fractured Hip?

A fractured hip is a general term used to describe three main types of fractures that occur near the hip joint. These include:

  • Femoral Head Fracture: Typically caused by high-impact trauma, this fracture affects the rounded top of the femur. In severe cases, the socket of the hip joint (acetabulum) may also be involved.
  • Femoral Neck Fracture: Also known as a neck of femur (NOF) fracture, intracapsular fracture, or subcapital fracture, this type occurs just below the ball of the hip joint and is common among older adults due to falls.
  • Subtrochanteric Fracture: This involves the upper shaft of the femur, just below the lesser trochanter, and often results from significant force or weakened bone structure.

Above: Gentle passive stretching of the hip and pelvic muscles and connective tissues performed by a specialist therapist.

What Causes a Fractured Hip?

The most common cause of a hip fracture is a fall, particularly in individuals with weakened bones due to conditions like osteoporosis. Weakened bone density increases the risk of fractures even from minor incidents. While older adults are more susceptible due to age-related bone loss, hip fractures can also occur in younger individuals following high-impact trauma, such as road traffic accidents or severe sports injuries.

Above: Gradual hip strengthening exercises performed under the guidance of a skilled therapist to enhance recovery and mobility.

What Symptoms Caused by a Fractured Hip Can Physiotherapy Help With?

Physiotherapy plays a key role in managing the symptoms that arise following a hip fracture. Some of the common symptoms physiotherapy can help address include:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Reduced range of movement
  • Muscle weakness
  • Poor mobility
  • Impaired balance
  • Loss of functional independence

Through structured rehabilitation, physiotherapy helps patients recover strength, mobility, and confidence. The goal is to restore optimal function and support individuals in returning to independent daily living.

Above: Targeted hip strengthening exercises guided by an experienced therapist to safely build muscle and restore joint stability during recovery.

How is a Hip Fracture Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a hip fracture begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination by a qualified healthcare professional. To confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent of the damage, an X-ray is typically performed. If the X-ray suggests more complex damage or soft tissue involvement, an MRI scan may be recommended to assess surrounding structures more thoroughly.

Medical Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity and location of the fracture. In many cases, surgery is required to stabilise the bone using screws, rods, plates, or nails. If the femoral head or acetabulum is severely damaged, a partial or total hip replacement may be necessary. Your orthopaedic surgeon will guide you through the best treatment options.

In cases where surgery is not recommended due to medical risk factors, traction may be used to help realign the fractured bones. Post-surgery or post-traction, a short period of bed rest may be followed by assisted standing and walking. Once healing begins, a structured physiotherapy rehabilitation plan is essential.

Benefits of Physiotherapy for a Fractured Hip

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the recovery process, no matter the severity of the fracture. The key benefits of physiotherapy include:

  • Pain reduction
  • Restoring muscle strength
  • Improving joint range of motion
  • Enhancing balance and stability
  • Regaining normal function and mobility

Without physiotherapy, the risk of long-term complications or functional decline increases. Early intervention supports faster, safer recovery and promotes a return to independent living.

What Does Physiotherapy Treatment Involve?

Every patient is unique, and physiotherapy is tailored to individual needs and goals. Early treatment focuses on gentle, pain-free exercises that maintain flexibility, strength, and balance. As healing progresses, hands-on techniques and more advanced rehab strategies are introduced.

Typical treatment techniques may include:

    Gait training (with or without walking aids)
  • Soft tissue massage
  • Trigger point release
  • Joint mobilisations
  • Stretching exercises
  • Strength training
  • Personalised rehabilitation programs to restore pre-injury function

Book a Physiotherapy Assessment

To schedule a physiotherapy assessment for a hip or femur fracture, please contact us at:

📧 Email: office@acephysiosports.com
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +65 81535374
🌐 Website: https://acephysiosports.com/

Summary

A hip fracture is a serious injury that can significantly disrupt your daily life. With expert physiotherapy, you can reduce pain, regain strength and mobility, and return to the activities you enjoy. At Ace Physiotherapy & Sports Singapore, our experienced team is here to support your full recovery.

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