What are the treatment options for hip fracture?

A hip fracture can affect the upper thigh bone or the area just below the hip joint. The fracture's location and stability, your general health, mobility before the injury, and skin and soft-tissue condition all influence the plan. X-rays and sometimes additional imaging help the team understand the break.

Hip fracture surgery may use screws, plates, or a replacement procedure to stabilize the bone or restore the joint. Non-surgical care is reserved for selected situations when surgery is not suitable, with close monitoring and support for safe movement. Bisphosphonate therapy may be discussed when low bone strength needs attention to reduce the chance of future fragility fractures. Post-operative rehabilitation focuses on transfers, walking, strength, balance, and safe daily activities. See [Hip Fracture Surgery](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/hip-fracture-surgery/), [Bisphosphonate Therapy](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/bisphosphonate-therapy/), and [Post-Operative Rehabilitation](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/post-operative-rehabilitation/).

A suspected hip fracture needs urgent medical assessment, especially after a fall with severe hip or groin pain, inability to stand, or inability to bear weight. Do not try to walk someone with a possibly broken hip; keep them still and call emergency services. After treatment, seek prompt advice for increasing wound redness, drainage, fever, new calf swelling, chest pain, or sudden breathlessness.

Where is the fracture and is it stable? Which procedure is recommended and why? What weight-bearing instructions apply? How will pain, bone health, falls risk, and rehabilitation be addressed together?