What to know about hip fracture in older adults

After a fall, a person may have severe hip or groin pain, inability to bear weight, difficulty moving the leg or a leg that appears shorter or turned outward. A fracture can occasionally occur with less dramatic pain, so new difficulty walking after a minor incident still deserves review. Doctors assess the person’s overall condition and use imaging to identify the break. They also consider medicines, other illnesses, bone health and the person’s usual mobility.

Call emergency services when a fracture is suspected. Keep the person still and comfortable, avoid trying to straighten or test the leg, and keep them warm while help is arranged. Do not offer food or drink if urgent surgery may be needed unless a clinician advises it. In hospital, treatment may include surgery, pain control, prevention of complications from immobility and early supported mobilisation. Rehabilitation focuses on transfers, walking, strength, balance and safe use of aids.

Treat a suspected hip fracture as urgent, especially after a fall with inability to stand, severe pain or a changed leg position. Emergency help is also needed for fainting, heavy bleeding, chest pain, breathing difficulty or new confusion. After treatment, report increasing wound pain, fever, calf swelling, sudden breathlessness or a sharp decline in mobility to the clinical team without delay.

Ask which part of the hip is broken, what treatment is recommended, when weight-bearing can begin and what rehabilitation support is available. Discuss fall prevention, bone-health assessment, pain control and the warning signs to monitor at home.