Hip Fracture Treatment From a Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon in Louisville, KY

A long distance runner gives a thumbs up during a race on a trail in the woods

A hip fracture is a crack or break in the top of the thighbone (femur) near the point where it fits into the hip socket. The most common cause is a fall, particularly among older adults and those with weakened bones. A hip fracture can also develop gradually through repetitive use, which can cause tiny cracks to form in the femur near the hip joint. Athletes such as long-distance runners and ballet dancers are particularly prone to stress fractures of the hip. This type of injury may resolve on its own with rest and activity modifications; however, if left untreated, it can worsen and progress into a broken hip.

In many cases, a hip fracture causes severe pain in the hip or groin area, along with swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, and an inability to support any weight on the affected leg.

Types of Hip Fractures

A broken hip can be classified based on the location and severity of the break in the femur. The two most common types of hip fractures are:

  • A femoral neck fracture – Often related to osteoporosis and athletic stress fractures, this type of injury is characterized by a break in the femur 1-2 inches below the hip joint. Due to its location, the fracture can potentially disrupt the supply of blood to the femoral head, leading to a complication known as avascular necrosis of the hip.
  • An intertrochanteric hip fracture – This type of injury, which involves a break in the femur 3-4 inches below the hip joint, does not interfere with the supply of blood to the bone.

How Is a Hip Fracture Treated?

Usually, a broken hip will require surgical treatment. The optimal approach will be determined based on the location and extent of the break. One option is hip repair surgery, which involves the placement of screws, rods, plates, or other internal fixation devices to hold the broken bone together as it heals. Alternatively, a severe fracture may warrant hip replacement surgery, which involves replacing part or all of the hip joint with artificial components. Any type of hip surgery is usually followed by a customized physical therapy program designed to restore muscle strength and mobility.

If you have symptoms of a hip fracture, you should promptly consult with a physician who can provide an accurate diagnosis and suggest appropriate treatment. If you’re in the Louisville, Kentucky, area, you can consult with a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic. We offer a full range of treatments for hip fractures and other musculoskeletal injuries.

Contact Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic today to schedule a consultation with a hip specialist at our full-service facility in Louisville, KY.

What our patients are saying
Shaun H.
I was able to get a office visit on short notice. It seemed to be a very busy day. Rebecca took the time to listen to all of my issues and discuss a plan for additional treatment. I have always been impressed with her knowledge and bed side manner.
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Dr Goodin has replaced both of my knees this year with excellent results. He and Carly listen to my concerns, act promptly and work hard to make this journey the best it can be. Carly and Dr Goodin both have GREAT bedside manner and I feel I am in expert care with them.
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Dr. Richardson is the best! He did shoulder decompression surgery for me many moons ago and has continued to treat me for other shoulder, arm, and back issues since. I would recommend him to anyone!
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The New Albany office of Louisville Orthopedic is full of terrific people who know what excellent customer service is about! From the front desk to the lab, they are great. Doctor Lewis is my surgeon and I love him. He’s good at what he does and he’s compassionate. I would recommend him to anyone.
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This was my first time at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic and I saw Melissa Parshall PA-C. I was very impressed with how fast I got in, had x-rays, and met with her. She was very thorough and extremely friendly. So glad A friend told me to come see you guys! Thank you!
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Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

4130 Dutchman's Lane,
Suite 300,Louisville 40207
(502) 897-1794

Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

1425 State St.,
,New Albany 47150
(812) 920-0408

Locations
*MAIN LOCATION
Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic
4130 Dutchman's Lane
Suite 300
Louisville, KY 40207

Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic
1425 State St.
New Albany, IN 47150