FEMORAL NECK FRACTURE

Femoral neck fractures are a specific type of intracapsular hip fracture. The femoral neck connects the femoral shaft with the femoral head.

The hip joint is the articulation of the femoral head with the acetabulum. The junctional location makes the femoral neck prone to fracture.

                                                  CAUSES OF FEMORAL NECK FRACTURE

• A minor fall or twisting of the hip in the elderly.
• Patients with osteoporosis.
• High-impact trauma such as motor vehicle accidents.
• Younger individuals unaccustomed to sudden strenuous activity or change in activity.

                                             RISK FACTORS OF FEMORAL NECK FRACTURE

Risk factors for hip fracture include:

• Gender: prevalent in women; postmenopausal twice as likely as premenopausal to have hip fracture
• Reduced Bone density
• Falls
• Medications: Some medications can cause a decrease in bone density like cortisone.
• Nutrition: It is well known that calcium and vitamin D increase bone mass, so a lack of it can cause several fractures, including hip fractures.
• Age: the older you get, the higher the risk is for hip fractures. 90% of these fractures occur in persons over 70 years old.
• Alcohol and tobacco: These products can reduce bone mass, causing a higher risk to have a hip fracture
• Medical problems: Endocrine disorders can cause fragility of the bones
• Physical inactivity: Physical activity is very important for muscle mass and bone mass.

                                                                        SYMPTOMS

• Dull ache in the groin and/or hip region
• Inability to put weight on the injured leg causing immobility right after the fall
• Shorter leg on the side of the injured hip
• External rotation of the injured leg
• Stiffness, bruising and swelling in and around the hip.

     PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENT OF FEMORAL NECK FRACTURE

• Exercises to strengthen muscles.
• Stretching exercises to increase the flexibility of hip muscles.
• Increasing your walking distance with less assistance if able.
• Activities to improve your balance.

The focus of physiotherapy is to: Decrease pain levels. Restore normal strength in muscle groups affected. Restore normal range of movement in your joints.

Visit us at Effective Physiotherapy and Fitness Clinic at this address No 2 D Close, Ajumgobia Street, Kado Estate, Abuja or call +234 811 885 6060,