Treating a broken hip without surgery

This decision is individual. It may apply to a stable fracture or to a person whose overall condition, previous mobility, treatment goals, or serious illness makes an operation unlikely to provide enough advantage.

Care without an operation does not mean no treatment. The plan may include regular pain relief, supported positioning, skin protection, nutrition and hydration support, bowel care, and measures to reduce blood-clot and chest problems. Imaging may be repeated when the result would change management.

Movement guidance depends on fracture stability and the person's goals. Some people may transfer or walk with assistance, while others need equipment and extensive help. The team should explain whether it expects bone healing, gradual supported mobility, or primarily relief of pain and distress.

Use pain medicine on the agreed schedule, especially before washing, repositioning, or therapy. Follow the stated weight-bearing limit and use trained help for transfers. Check heels, hips, and lower back for redness or skin damage, and change position according to the care plan.

Encourage fluids and suitable meals if swallowing and medical instructions allow. Keep familiar aids such as glasses and hearing devices available, because clear orientation supports participation. Ask for physiotherapy or occupational therapy input on seating, toileting, walking aids, and home equipment.

Call emergency services for chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, coughing blood, collapse, or severe new unresponsiveness. A newly swollen painful calf, uncontrolled hip pain, cold or numb foot, fever, or sudden inability to transfer also needs prompt clinical advice.

Report increasing confusion, marked sleepiness, reduced urine, inability to keep fluids down, constipation with abdominal swelling, or spreading skin breakdown. These are not changes to wait for until a routine appointment.

Ask what surgery could realistically achieve, what burdens it would add, and why non-operative care is recommended. Request clear goals for comfort and mobility, who to contact when symptoms change, what help carers need, and whether palliative-care expertise would improve symptom support.