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Hip fractures

A condition where there is damage to the top of the thigh bone next to the hip socket.

Reviewed by Professor Ali Ghoz, Consultant Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgeon

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What is a hip fracture?

If you have fractured your hip, there will be breaks or cracks at the top of the thigh bone next to the hip socket.

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After a fall or injury, if you have a fracture, you may experience the following symptoms:

  • Extreme pain
  • Unable to lift or move your leg
  • Unable to put weight on your leg
  • Have bruising and swelling around your hip
  • Your injured leg may appear shorter than your other leg
  • Your injured leg may be turned outwards.

The majority of fractures are the result of a fall which commonly affected the older generations. However, certain conditions such as cancer, osteoporosis, and arthritis can cause bones to weaken and be more susceptible to fractures.

Diagnosing hip fractures

To determine if you have a hip fracture, your orthopaedic consultant will take a detailed history and send you for imaging such as an X-ray, MRI or CT scan. This will will outline the extent of the injury.

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Treatment for hip fractures

If you have fractured your hip, orthopaedic surgery is the most common option. Your orthopaedic consultant may be able to fix the fracture with plates and screws or rods, instead of performing a partial or complete hip replacement.

The type of surgery you have will depend on the position of the fracture, your age, your mobility before the fracture, and the condition of the bone and joint. Your orthopaedic consultant will explain the different options, and which is most suitable for your individual case.

Following surgery, you will need physiotherapy and rehabilitation to help increase your mobility and strength. Your orthopaedic consultant may also recommend occupational therapy to support you when you return home.

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Paying for your treatment

We welcome both self-paying and insured patients.

Self-pay patients

We offer several ways for patients to self-pay, including pay-as-you-go and self-pay packages.

Find out more about self-pay >

Insured patients

At Cromwell Hospital, we accept private health insurance from most major providers, including AXA, Aviva, Bupa, and Vitality.

How to use your private health insurance >
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Our locations

Cromwell Hospital

Cromwell Hospital

164-178 Cromwell Road
London SW5 0TU
United Kingdom

+44 (0)20 7460 5700

More about Cromwell Hospital >
Basinghall Clinic

Basinghall Clinic

4 Basinghall Street
London EC2V 5BQ
United Kingdom

+44 (0)20 7244 4891

More about Basinghall Clinic >
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Our telephone lines are open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 2pm Saturdays.

 

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Please note - regrettably we are unable to answer specific medical questions or offer medical advice via email or telephone.