This is a break at the top of your thigh bone near the hip.
Healing:
It normally takes 12 weeks for this injury to heal.
Smoking will slow down your healing. We would advise that you stop smoking while your injury heals. Talk to your GP or go to www.smokefree.nhs.uk for more information.
Pain and Swelling:
Your hip may be painful. Taking pain medication and using ice or cold packs will help. More information is on the next page.
Using a cold pack will help with your pain and swelling. You can use an ice pack or bag of frozen peas wrapped in a damp towel. Put this on your hip for 15 minutes every few hours. Make sure the ice isn’t in direct contact with your skin.
Try to rest your hip, especially in the first 24-72 hours. You should only put partial pressure through the hip for 6 weeks.
Exercise and activity:
It is important to start exercising as soon as possible. You will find pictures and instructions for your exercises on the next page.
Follow up:
A follow up appointment is not normally needed for this injury. You will be referred to the physiotherapy department to start treatment approximately 4 weeks after your injury.
Any questions:
If you are concerned about your symptoms, are unable to follow this rehabilitation plan or notice pain other than at your hip, please contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic.
Caring for your injury: Week 1-6
Exercises
Early movement of the ankle and foot is important to promote circulation and reduce the risk of developing a Deep Vein Thrombosis (blood clot). If you notice any swelling or redness in the calf, please attend A&E.
Do these exercises 3-4 times a day.
1. Ankle exercises
Move both ankles and toes up and down as much as possible. Repeat 10 times
2. Thigh muscle exercises
Rest with your leg supported and straight. Gently tense the muscles in your thigh and try to straighten your knee further. Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 7-10 times.
Do these exercises gently as pain allows
3. Knee / Hip Flexion
Lying on your back, bend and straighten your leg. Repeat 10 times
4. Hip Abduction
Lying on your back, bring your leg out to the side, then back to the middle. Repeat 10 times.
Caring for your injury: Week 6-12
Your fracture should now be healed.
You can gradually increase your day to day activity. Be guided by any pain or discomfort you may still have.
You should have had your first Physiotherapy appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m concerned about my symptoms and/or I am struggling to return to exercise.
Please contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic/your Physiotherapist if you have started treatment.
I am struggling with my crutches. What can I do?
Contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic. We are happy to give further advice.
When can I start driving?
You can return to driving when:
- You are fully weight bearing (not before 6 weeks)
- You can move comfortably and
- You can control the vehicle safely.
Always test your ability to drive in a safe environment first.
How can I get a certificate for work?
You can self-certify for the first 7 days following your injury. For any longer periods, please discuss the provision of a fitness to work statement with the Virtual Fracture Clinic Team or your GP.
What do I do with my crutches when I no longer need them?
Crutches can be returned to the Fracture Clinic or A&E.
Contact Details for Bedford and Luton
Please contact the hospital where you attended A&E as the other site will not be able to access your notes
BEDFORD HOSPITAL PATIENTS
How do I contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC)
- Telephone 01234 792036
- Messages will be checked every morning Monday to Friday (except for Bank Holidays)
- Email VFCBedford@bedfordhospital.nhs.uk
How do I contact the Fracture Clinic?
- Telephone 01234 792138
How do I contact the Plaster Room?
- Telephone 01234 792031
- Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (out of hours contact the Emergency Department)
LUTON & DUNSTABLE HOSPITAL PATIENTS
How do I contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC)
- Telephone 01582 718121
- Messages will be checked every morning Monday to Friday (except for Bank Holidays)
- Email VFCLuton@ldh.nhs.uk
How do I contact the Fracture Clinic?
- Telephone 01582 497194 or 01582 718 993 (outpatient appointments)
How do I contact the Plaster Room?
- Telephone 01582 491166 (ext. 2233)
- Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (out of hours contact the Emergency Department)