A hairline hip fracture involves a break in the upper part of the thigh bone. Most cases of fractures occur among adults age 65 and older. It is important to note that these injuries often result to significant health issues, diminished level of independence and premature death.
Immediate treatment is vital to minimize the likelihood of potential complications and improves the recovery of the individual.
Treatment measures for a hairline hip fracture
Bed rest
Bed rest is usually recommended by the doctor. In case a hairline hip fracture is stable, it is likely to heal without surgery and bed rest is required. A follow-up appointment is essential so that an X-ray is taken to check if the hip is healing.
In case the fracture becomes unstable, surgery is required. The individual should be closely monitored during bed rest for any complications that might develop during immobilization such as blood clots, bed sores, infection, malnutrition and pneumonia.
Is surgery required?
The surgery usually depends on the location of the break in the hip. For an intertrochanteric hairline hip fracture, it involves the placement of metal screws through the fracture and a plate is attached that runs along the femur. This plate is secured in place with other screws to keep the bone stable.
The screws allow the bone fragments to compress as they heal which enables the edges to grow together. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a healthcare facility. The individual should stay in the hospital for a week or less but should spend some time in a rehabilitation center before returning home.
Medications
After a hairline hip fracture, the doctor might prescribe medications such as bisphosphonates. The medications work by building up bone density that reduces the likelihood of future fractures.
Remember that the medications can trigger side effects such as abdominal pain, nausea and esophageal inflammation.
Rehabilitation
A rehabilitation period is required after a hairline hip fracture to hasten the recovery and allow the individual to regain functionality. The individual is guided with the help of a walker within 24 hours of surgery.
The therapy is aimed on improving strength and range of motion of the individual. Over the next months, the therapy is focused on promoting independence in daily tasks. In some cases, a walker or wheelchair is required to regain mobility.
Disclaimer / More Information
The information posted on this page on a hairline hip fracture is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to manage broken bones including a hairline hip fracture, register for first aid training at one of our training centers located throughout Canada. The training centers are located in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Saskatoon, Kelowna, Surrey, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax.