How to Recover From a Hip Fracture

Hip fractures can be serious and usually require surgery, but the surgical procedures are typically quite effective. How well and quickly you recover depends largely on your overall health and level of mobility prior to breaking your hip.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Cane
• Crutches
• Walkers

1. Get out of bed as soon as possible following surgery. While you're in the hospital, the nursing staff will assist you in getting out of bed. Even if you don't feel like it, moving around as soon as possible after surgery will help decrease the risk of many postoperative complications.
2. Move to a chair. On your first day up, you'll probably go from your bed to sitting in a chair. If you feel up to it, you may even stand or walk a few steps.
3. Ask for medication if you're in pain. Painkillers are usually prescribed for the first few days following surgery.
4. Take it easy and don't overdo it. Follow the instructions of your doctor and hospital staff. If there are no complications, you'll probably be released from the hospital in about a week.
5. Begin working with a physical therapist immediately. Chances are you'll probably begin some therapy while in the hospital.
6. Be diligent with your therapy. You need to learn how to walk, move, sit and stand so as not to reinjure your hip. The area is still very fragile and is still healing.
7. Use crutches, a walker or a cane following your surgery. You'll need assistance with walking for several months. Continue using whatever device works best for you until your doctor and/or therapist feels you're ready to walk unaided.
8. Ask for assistance at home. You may need help doing daily tasks. If you live alone, see if someone can come stay with you or if you're eligible for home health care.
9. Eat a well-balanced diet full of nutritious food to help you heal. Add increased fiber and fluids to your diet to prevent constipation since your activity level is now decreased.

Tips & Warnings

• Full recovery may take up to a year, and more than half the people who fracture their hip return to the same level of mobility that they had previously.
• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.