What is the first treatment tried for hip fracture?

A hip fracture is a break in the upper thigh bone near the hip joint. It is not usually managed by waiting at home or starting exercises before assessment. In hospital, clinicians check circulation, sensation and other injuries, provide pain relief, and use imaging to understand the fracture. They also review medicines and health conditions that may affect anaesthesia, bleeding or bone healing.

Many fractures need an operation to stabilise the break or replace a damaged part of the joint. Bisphosphonate therapy may be considered later when bone fragility is also being addressed; it does not repair the acute break. Rehabilitation follows the chosen treatment and aims to restore transfers, walking and safe independence.

Call emergency services or go to an emergency department after a fall when there is severe hip or groin pain, inability to stand, or a leg that appears shorter or turned outward. Keep the person still and warm, avoid food and drink in case an operation is needed, and do not try to straighten or test the leg. Bring a medicines list and mention allergies, previous falls and relevant medical conditions.

After discharge, follow weight-bearing instructions exactly and use the prescribed walking aid. [Hip Fracture Surgery](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/hip-fracture-surgery/) and [Post-Operative Rehabilitation](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/post-operative-rehabilitation/) describe parts of the recovery pathway.

Treat suspected fracture as an emergency. After treatment, seek prompt help for increasing wound drainage, fever, new calf swelling, chest pain, breathlessness, confusion, or a sudden inability to bear the permitted weight. A new fall also warrants assessment even if pain initially seems manageable.

Ask where the break is, what weight you may place through the leg, and whether surgery is recommended. Ask how bone health will be assessed, which walking aid is safest, and when rehabilitation should begin.