Chiropractic Story

Precautions for the elderly: Hip Fracture

What are Hip Fractures?

Hip Fracture is a fracture or a crack or break in the proximal end of the femur near where the bone meets the hip. The term Hip fracture is used to describe any of 4 types of fractures within the bone in the hip area. 90% of hip fractures occur due to direct impact against the hip joint, usually as a result of a fall.

Causes and Symptoms:

1 in 4 people will ultimately die from complications caused by a hip fracture. Each year in the United States, there are 350,000 hip fractures. Elderly people are at a greater risk of hoi fracture because of the weakening of their bones due to osteoporosis. A vascular necrosis is another cause of degeneration of the hip joint. Sometimes a fracture or dislocation will cause damage to blood vessels. In this condition, the femoral head or the ball portion loses a part of its blood supply and actually dies. This leads to a collapse of the femoral head and degeneration of the joint.

 Precautions:

Precautions for the elderly to take to avoid falls that may result in hip fractures are; a healthy diet that will help strengthen bones including calcium and vitamin D; A regular exercise program; A safe living area and a regular eye test to help avoid hazardous objects.

Find out more about Hip Fracture by visiting the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

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