Hip Fractures: Treatment and Prevention

Course overview

A hip fracture is a break in the upper quarter of the femur, or the thigh bone. These types of fractures occur most commonly from falls, although some conditions like cancer, osteoporosis or stress injuries can weaken bones and make them more susceptible to breaking. Other factors, including multiple medications, diminished vision, as well as balance problems can also make older individuals more likely to fall. Each year, over 250,000 people are hospitalized for hip fractures, and some of these individuals will never fully regain their prior level of function: they may require assistance to walk, and a few will even need to go to a nursing home (CDC, 2015). It is also likely that a large percentage of them will die. A thoughtfully designed physical therapy program is vital for the treatment, as well as the prevention, of hip fractures. The physical therapist is an essential partner to assist patients in preserving, improving and maintaining the current levels of functioning within their daily lives. This course will provide an overview on the three main types of hip fractures, the differences between the approaches to surgical and non-surgical candidates for physical therapy, and prevention techniques that the physical therapist can share which will ensure a patient is knowledgeable about how to prevent future fall occurrences.