Overview
Getting up and walking soon after surgery helps recovery.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Hip or groin pain after a fall, can't walk
Less common
- Leg looks shorter or turned out
When to get medical care
Call 911A fall with hip pain and can't stand: call 911.
Get care todayHip pain after a fall even if walking.
See a doctor soonHip pain lasting days.
Causes
Falls, thin bones.
Who is more likely to get it
- Over 65
- Osteoporosis
Possible complications
Diagnosis
An X-ray shows it.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- X-ray:
- MRI: If X-ray is normal.
Treatment
Don't move the person.
Self-care
- Keep them still and warm
- Call 911
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relievers | Pain and swelling | Ask first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Surgery, then rehab.
Prevention
To prevent it:
- Fall prevention
- Bone health
Which doctor treats this
- Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
- They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).
- A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.
Back to school, work, or sports
- School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
- Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.
For caregivers
- Set up a pill organizer and a simple daily routine.
- Make the home safe from falls.
- Go to visits with them and write down what the doctor says.
- Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.
Outlook
Most improve with rehab.
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Hip fracture (broken hip)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.