Fractured Neck of Femur

What is a Fractured Neck of Femur?

The neck of the femur is the section of the thigh bone located just below the ball of the hip joint. This area connects the femoral head to the shaft of the femur and is essential for normal hip movement and weight-bearing.

A fractured neck of femur occurs when this part of the bone breaks, usually following a fall or trauma. These fractures are particularly common in older adults and individuals with osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bone density.

Because this fracture affects the hip joint, it often requires surgical treatment followed by structured rehabilitation to restore mobility and function.

How Does a Fractured Neck of Femur Happen?

The most common cause of a neck of femur fracture is a fall, particularly among older adults.

Common causes include:

• Falls from standing height
• Slips or trips at home
• Osteoporosis weakening the bones
• Road traffic accidents
• High-impact injuries

Older individuals, especially women, are more prone to this injury due to age-related bone density loss.

What Are the Symptoms of a Fractured Neck of Femur?

Symptoms usually appear immediately after the injury.

Common symptoms include:

• Severe pain in the hip or groin
• Difficulty or inability to walk
• Shortening of the injured leg
• Outward rotation of the leg
• Swelling and bruising around the hip
• Weakness in the leg
• Difficulty bearing weight

Because the hip is essential for movement, standing or walking is usually very difficult.

What Should I Do If I Have a Fractured Neck of Femur?

A fractured neck of femur is a serious medical emergency and requires immediate hospital treatment.

If this injury is suspected:

• Avoid moving or putting weight on the injured leg
• Seek emergency medical attention immediately
• Follow medical advice regarding imaging and treatment

Doctors usually confirm the fracture with X-rays, and additional scans may be performed if needed.

Treatment typically involves surgery within 24–48 hours, depending on the patient's medical condition.

Common surgical procedures include:

• Hip replacement surgery using a prosthetic joint
• Internal fixation with screws or nails to stabilise the fracture

After surgery, physiotherapy begins early to help patients regain mobility.

Physiotherapy Treatment After Neck of Femur Surgery

Physiotherapy is essential to restore walking ability, muscle strength, and independence after surgery.

At ACE Physio Sports in Singapore, rehabilitation programmes are personalised based on the patient's condition, surgical procedure, and recovery goals.

Physiotherapy aims to:

• Reduce pain and swelling
• Restore hip mobility
• Strengthen hip and thigh muscles
• Improve balance and coordination
• Support safe walking and mobility
• Prevent complications such as stiffness or muscle weakness

Early Rehabilitation Phase

Physiotherapy often begins within the first day after surgery.

Treatment may include:

• Gentle leg and ankle exercises to improve circulation
• Assisted walking using a walking frame
• Basic mobility exercises
• Sit-to-stand training
• Education on safe movement techniques

Patients gradually progress from a walking frame to crutches or independent walking as strength and confidence improve.

Intermediate Rehabilitation Phase

As recovery progresses, physiotherapy focuses on strengthening and improving functional movement.

Treatment may include:

• Hip range-of-motion exercises
• Strengthening exercises for the hip, thigh, and core muscles
• Gait training to improve walking technique
• Functional movement training such as standing and transfers
• Balance exercises to reduce fall risk

Advanced Rehabilitation Phase

During the later stage of recovery, physiotherapy aims to restore independence and normal activity levels.

Treatment may include:

• Resistance exercises using bands or weights
• Advanced balance and coordination exercises
• Functional training for daily activities
• Stair climbing practice
• Endurance training

Recovery from neck of femur surgery may take up to 6 months, depending on the individual.

What Should I Avoid After Neck of Femur Surgery?

During recovery, patients should avoid movements that may place excessive stress on the hip.

These may include:

• Crossing the legs
• Twisting the hip excessively
• Sudden high-impact movements
• Returning to sports too early
• Ignoring persistent pain or swelling

Following physiotherapy advice and rehabilitation exercises is essential for safe recovery.

Can There Be Long-Term Effects?

Most patients recover well after surgery with proper rehabilitation. However, possible complications may include:

• Hip stiffness
• Muscle weakness
• Balance problems
• Reduced walking ability
• Increased risk of future falls

A structured physiotherapy programme significantly improves recovery outcomes and helps patients regain independence.

Why Choose ACE Physio Sports

At ACE Physio Sports – Singapore, our physiotherapists specialise in orthopaedic rehabilitation, post-surgical recovery, and fall prevention physiotherapy.

Our clinic provides:

• Experienced musculoskeletal physiotherapists
• Personalised rehabilitation programmes
• Evidence-based physiotherapy treatments
• Structured recovery plans for hip fracture surgery

Conveniently located near East Coast Road, we regularly treat patients from Marine Parade, Katong, Joo Chiat, Siglap, and Bedok.

Book an Appointment

To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosport.com.