Recovering from hip fracture surgery

Recovery after hip fracture surgery involves wound monitoring, prescribed weight-bearing, progressive rehabilitation, and practical steps to prevent another fall. The operation may repair the fracture with hardware or replace part of the joint, so restrictions differ. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will guide transfers, walking, stairs, and exercises.

Surgery stabilises or replaces the damaged part of the hip, but muscles and balance still need rebuilding. An [Intramedullary Nail] is one type of internal support used for selected fractures. Early stiffness, fatigue, bruising, and reduced appetite can occur during recovery. The surgical approach and your general health determine precautions such as hip movement limits.

Check the incision as instructed and keep follow-up appointments. Use the walking aid and weight-bearing level prescribed; increasing activity too quickly can strain healing tissues. Practise ankle movements, breathing exercises, transfers, and strengthening as taught. [Post-Operative Rehabilitation] can coordinate these goals. Remove loose rugs, secure cables, and arrange a stable seat and suitable bathroom support. A [Falls Prevention Programme] can address balance, footwear, vision, and home hazards.

Call your surgical team for spreading redness, wound leakage, fever, increasing pain, or a sudden change in leg position or function. Seek emergency care for severe breathlessness, chest pain, collapse, or a swollen painful calf. Report a fall promptly, particularly if you cannot stand or the operated leg suddenly hurts.

Ask what movements and weight-bearing are allowed, how to care for the incision, and when to progress the walking aid. Ask when driving, bathing independently, and returning to work or sport may be considered. Discuss the role of [Hip Fracture Surgery] follow-up in checking healing.