Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
-
Chat With Us
+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Fractured Femur
The femur, also known as the thigh bone, is located between the hip and knee joints. It is the longest and strongest bone in the human body, and a significant amount of force is typically required for it to fracture.
What is a fractured femur?
A fractured femur is an injury to the femur bone that results in a crack or break. This usually occurs suddenly following a fall, trip, or high-impact accident such as a motor vehicle collision. The type of femur fracture sustained typically depends on the mechanism of injury and the age of the patient. There are generally three types of femur fractures:
- Proximal femur fracture – A break near the top of the femur, close to the hip joint. Common in older adults, often related to osteoporosis.
- Femoral shaft fracture – A break along the long, straight part of the femur. Usually caused by high-energy trauma such as road accidents or significant falls.
- Distal femur fracture – A break near the lower end of the femur, close to the knee joint. These can occur in both younger and older individuals, depending on the injury mechanism.
What causes afemoral fracture
There are several causes of a femoral fracture. Proximal femur fractures most commonly occur in older adults, often as a result of a fall or trip. This is typically due to osteoporosis, which weakens the bone and makes it more susceptible to cracks or breaks.
Femoral shaft fractures typically result from high-impact trauma, such as a road traffic accident or a fall from a significant height.
Supracondylar fractures occur just above the knee joint and are more common in individuals who experience a trip or fall after a total knee replacement or in those with osteoarthritis, which can weaken the femur.
How is a fractured femur diagnosed?
A fractured femur is diagnosed by a healthcare professional through a comprehensive subjective and objective assessment. An X-ray is typically performed to confirm the fracture. Depending on the findings, further imaging such as an MRI, CT scan, or bone scan may be required to assess the severity and exact nature of the injury.
Medical Treatment
Medical treatment for a femoral fracture depends on the type and severity of the injury. Proximal femur fractures are most commonly managed surgically. In cases where there is significant damage—particularly in patients with underlying osteoarthritis—a hip replacement may be required. If surgery is not an option due to high risk or patient refusal, treatment will focus on conservative measures such as pain management and supportive care.
Surgical intervention is usually necessary for a femoral shaft fracture. Under general anaesthetic, a metal rod (intramedullary nail) is inserted into the centre of the femur to realign and stabilise the bone. Screws are placed above and below the fracture site to secure the rod and maintain stability. The rod typically remains in place permanently unless complications develop. In some cases, depending on the nature of the injury and the surgeon’s assessment, plates and screws or an external fixator may be used instead.
Surgery is typically required for supracondylar fractures when the fracture is unstable or displaced. Under anaesthetic, the surgeon may use plates and screws for external fixation or flexible rods for internal fixation, depending on the severity and type of fracture. If surgery is not a viable option—due to medical risk or patient preference—traction may be used to restore proper alignment and bone length, followed by bracing to support healing.
Following surgery for a fractured femur, the surgeon will provide guidance on when and how weight-bearing should begin. A structured rehabilitation programme should be initiated to promote optimal and timely recovery.
Benefits of physiotherapy for a fractured femur
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the recovery from a fractured femur, regardless of the severity of the injury. The primary goals of physiotherapy are to:
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Restore mobility and range of motion
- Rebuild strength in the surrounding muscles
- Improve balance and coordination
- Promote safe and effective weight-bearing
- Facilitate return to daily activities and sport
- Prevent complications such as joint stiffness or muscle atrophy
What would physiotherapy treatment for a fractured femur involve?
Physiotherapy treatment for a fractured femur is structured into three main phases: early, middle, and late. Each phase focuses on different goals and techniques depending on the stage of healing.
- Early phase – the focus initially will be on pain free exercises at first to maintain your flexibility, strength and balance as inactivity can decrease these rapidly. Hands on treatment such as soft tissue massage will be introduced to help decrease pain levels and improve range of movement. Education will be provided on the correct use of walking aids.
- Middle phase – the focus for treatment at this stage is strengthening the muscle groups surrounding the fracture site which are the quadriceps, hamstrings and gluteal muscles. The exercises will be progressed as and when instructed by the physiotherapist to ensure they are carried out safely and efficiently.
- Late phase – the focus at this phase is to gradually return the patient to their function/sporting activity with exercises focusing on sport specific drills.
How do I arrange a physiotherapy assessment for a fractured femur?
A fractured femur is a very painful and serious injury that can significantly impact your daily life and independence. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in your recovery by providing personalised treatment strategies aimed at reducing pain, restoring mobility, and rebuilding strength. With the right physiotherapy support, you can achieve the best possible outcome and return to your normal activities as safely and efficiently as possible.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
Get treated today!
We have immediate appointments available today. Contact us to make an appointment.
Find out more »
We are open...
Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
Find your nearest clinic
Acephysio Sports have clinics located throughout the Singapore.
Find out more »
