A break in the femur just below the pelvis; approximately 320,000 hospitalizations occur each year due hip fractures. Most at risk are white, post-menopausal women; Osteoporosis dramatically increases risk. Most hip fractures outside of this group are the result if high-trauma injuries, such as car accidents.

Among those affected over the age of 65, 40% are transferred directly to long-term care facilities, long-term rehabilition facilities, or nursing homes; most of those affected require some sort of living assistance from family or home-care providers. 50% permanently require walkers, canes, or some other such device for mobility; all require some sort of mobility assistance throughout the healing process.

Among those affected over the age of 50, approximately 25% die within the next year due to complications such as blood clots, infection, and pneumonia. (See also: Deep venous thrombosis, Pulmonary embolism).

External Links

• Orthopedics.com article on hip fractures
• American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons article on hip fractures