Informational page, not medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, consult a specialist doctor.

Traumatological emergencyOver 30,000 cases annually in people over 65

Hip Fracture (Femoral Neck Fracture)

Post-operative recovery and rehabilitation in older adults

What is hip fracture (femoral neck fracture)?

Hip fracture (femoral neck fracture) is a common surgical emergency in older adults. 90% of cases are caused by falls on a background of osteoporosis. One-year mortality after fracture is 20% — which makes fall prevention essential.

Treatment is surgical (hip replacement or internal fixation). Recovery takes 3–6 months and requires intensive daily physiotherapy.

Many families choose a post-operative rehabilitation care home for this period — access to daily physiotherapy and medical supervision significantly accelerates recovery.

Main symptoms

Severe hip pain after a fall

Inability to stand or walk

Shortening of the affected leg

External rotation of the leg

🚨 When to seek medical help

IMMEDIATELY after a fall if the older person cannot stand, has severe pain in the hip or leg, or the leg appears shortened or rotated.

Care needs

Intensive post-surgical rehabilitation
Daily physiotherapy (3–6 months)
Prevention of pressure ulcers and venous thrombosis
Progressive remobilisation (bed → chair → walking)
Osteoporosis treatment (preventing recurrence)
Home adaptations (grab rails, non-slip surfaces)

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Family role

Family plays a crucial role in motivating the older person throughout recovery, which can be painful and discouraging. Regular visits and constant encouragement prevent post-fracture depression and speed up recovery. It is important to plan home adaptations before discharge (grab rails, non-slip surfaces, removal of obstacles).

Prevention

Osteoporosis treatment
Balance and strengthening exercises
Falls risk assessment
Home adaptations (grab rails, lighting, non-slip surfaces)
Review of medications that cause dizziness
Calcium and vitamin D supplements

Frequently asked questions

How long does recovery from a hip fracture take?

Full recovery takes on average 3–6 months, but depends on age, general health and the type of surgery. Daily physiotherapy in the first months is essential for a good outcome.

Can a person walk normally after a hip fracture?

With appropriate rehabilitation, most patients regain the ability to walk, although sometimes with the aid of a walking stick. Approximately 50% of patients recover their pre-fracture level of mobility.

Why is a rehabilitation care home recommended?

A rehabilitation care home provides daily physiotherapy, permanent medical supervision and prevention of complications (pressure ulcers, thrombosis). These conditions are difficult to ensure at home, especially in the first weeks.

How can a second fracture be prevented?

Osteoporosis treatment (bisphosphonates, calcium, vitamin D), balance exercises and home adaptations are essential. Without prevention, the risk of a second fracture is 5–10% in the first year.

Glossary terms

Osteoporosis
Loss of bone density that significantly increases the risk of fractures. Very common in post-menopausal women. Hip fractures in the elderly are particularly dangerous — 20% mortality at one year. Prevention: calcium, vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise. Treatment: bisphosphonates.
Femoral neck fracture
Fracture at the level of the hip, extremely common in elderly patients with osteoporosis. Usually requires urgent surgical intervention (prosthesis or osteosynthesis). Recovery takes 3–6 months and involves intensive physiotherapy, often in a specialist care home.
Falls in the elderly
One in three people over 65 falls at least once a year. Causes: muscle weakness, impaired balance, medication, poor vision. Prevention: exercise, home adaptation.
Physiotherapy
Treatment through physical exercises, massage, electrotherapy, and other techniques for: restoring mobility, reducing pain, preventing falls, improving balance. Delivered by a licensed physiotherapist, based on a medical prescription.
Post-operative recovery
Period of care and rehabilitation following a surgical procedure (hip fracture, prosthesis, cardiac surgery). Includes physiotherapy, medical supervision, and daily assistance. Duration: 2–12 weeks. Many care homes offer specialised programmes.