Hip fracture

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Tests and diagnosis

Complications
Treatments and drugs
Prevention
Lifestyle and home remedies

Definition

You can break your hip at any age, but hip fractures are most common in people older than 65. As you age, your bones slowly lose minerals and become less dense. Gradual loss of density weakens bones and makes them more susceptible to a hip fracture.

Women are more likely than men to experience a hip fracture because women lose bone density as they age at a greater rate than men do.

A hip fracture is a serious injury, particularly if you're older, and complications can be life-threatening. Fortunately, surgery to repair a hip fracture is usually very effective, although recovery often requires time and patience.

Symptoms