Treatment for Hip Fractures at Encino Orthopedics

A hip fracture most commonly occurs at the top of the femur, where the leg bone meets the hip socket. Hip fractures are often caused by a direct impact - such as in a car accident, fall, or athletic collision, for instance. Hip fractures frequently occur in the elderly, even in the course of a minor fall, because of the already weakened stature of the hip and leg bones.

Symptoms of a hip fracture include moderate to severe pain in the hip or groin region and an inability to fully support one's weight. In some cases, only mild pain in the leg or knee is experienced as a symptom of a hip fracture. To diagnose and treat a hip fracture in the San Fernando, Dr. Reisch will conduct a thorough exam at the Encino Orthopedics Center and likely order imaging tests - such as an MRI, CT, or Bone Scan - to determine the extent of the hip fracture.

Many hip fractures require surgery to adequately address the injury and ensure range of motion and strength is restored to the leg and hip joint. The type of hip surgery necessary for your fracture may vary depending on the extenuating factors of your case, as well as the seriousness of your hip injury. In some cases, a hip replacement surgery is suggested in order to avoid future injury and restore a broader range of motion to the hip joint. Hip repair surgery (also called "hip pinning") is a common treatment for a fracture, as well. Surgical grade screws or plates are used to bind the bone and ensure that the proper alignment and healing occurs following your hip fracture. Physical therapy is an essential part of the recovery process, regardless of the type of hip surgery you have.