What happens if a hip fracture is not treated?

A hip fracture can affect the upper thigh bone or the socket area and may make standing or walking impossible. Without stabilisation, the broken pieces may not join in a useful position, and the injured hip can remain painful and weak. Staying in bed or a chair for too long can lead to loss of muscle strength, pressure injuries, constipation, chest problems, and blood clots. A fall-related fracture may also reveal fragile bones associated with osteoporosis, which should be assessed as part of recovery.

Treat suspected hip fracture as an emergency: keep the person still, avoid trying to straighten the leg, and call emergency services. Do not ask them to walk or drive. In hospital, clinicians assess pain, circulation, movement, and imaging before deciding on hip fracture surgery or another stabilising approach. After the fracture is managed, post-operative rehabilitation can rebuild safe transfers, standing, walking, and confidence. Bone-health treatment may also be discussed when osteoporosis is present.

Get emergency help after a fall or impact when there is severe hip pain, inability to bear weight, a shortened or turned-out leg, or new limping with significant pain. Emergency care is also needed for faintness, confusion, a cold or numb foot, or breathing difficulty while waiting for assessment. Do not wait for symptoms to settle because some fractures are difficult to recognise without imaging.

Ask where the fracture is, whether it is stable, and what treatment will allow safe movement. Discuss pain control, clot prevention, rehabilitation goals, fall prevention, and whether bone-strength assessment or medication is needed.