After an Accident ยท California

Hip Fracture After a Fall After an Accident

A hip fracture is a break in the upper part of the thighbone near the hip joint, and it's one of the most common serious injuries from a fall, especially for older adults.

We are not a law firm or a medical provider. We connect you with doctors who treat these injuries.

Why this happens

Falling sideways or landing directly on the hip puts concentrated force on a bone that, especially with age or lower bone density, may not absorb the impact. A hip fracture almost always causes immediate, severe pain and an inability to stand or walk, though some minor cracks can initially allow limited weight-bearing before worsening. Because hip fractures carry real risks if surgery is delayed, same-day evaluation matters more than waiting to see if it improves.

When this is a medical emergency

Go to an emergency room immediately if a fall is followed by:

  • Inability to stand, walk, or bear any weight on the leg
  • The leg appearing shorter or turned outward at an unusual angle
  • Severe hip or groin pain that started right after the fall
  • Visible deformity or swelling around the hip

Commonly linked to these accident types

This symptom shows up often after these kinds of accidents. Find help specific to your situation.

Get connected with a doctor now

A real person responds, at no cost to you, regardless of insurance or immigration status.

Frequently asked questions

Can you walk on a fractured hip?

Some people with a stress fracture or incomplete break can take a few steps at first. But any hip pain that worsens with weight-bearing after a fall needs an X-ray, being able to walk isn't a reliable way to rule out a fracture.

Why are hip fractures more serious for older adults?

Recovery is harder with lower bone density, and there are real risks from prolonged immobility during recovery. That's exactly why getting evaluated and starting treatment quickly matters even more for older adults.

Is surgery always required for a hip fracture?

Most displaced hip fractures require surgery to realign and stabilize the bone. Imaging determines whether surgical or nonsurgical treatment fits your specific fracture, a doctor needs to see the scan to know.

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