Femur fracture (upper leg)

About Femur fracture (upper leg)

An upper leg fracture is a fracture of the thigh bone called the femur. The femur is a strong bone and it takes a tremendous amount of force to break the bone. The most common causes of fracture are a fall from height, car accidents, and in individuals with osteoporotic bone Treatment depends on the location, severity of the injury and age of the patient. The fracture can damage adjacent nerves and blood vessels. Fractures of this area can bleed a great deal and be life threatening.

Symptoms

Pain, upper leg deformity, inability to move leg, leg swelling, numbness, tenderness.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical will be performed. The diagnosis is usually confirmed with a x-ray.

Common tests: X-ray.

Path 2 — Over-the-Counter Options

OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments

Path 3 — Prescription Options

Prescription medications

Conventional treatment summary

Depends on the location of the injury, severity of the fracture and the age of the patient but may include nonoperative care with immobilization with splinting/casting and/or surgery which may be referred to a closed reduction or an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of the injured bones. Hardware is applied in surgery to keep the bones aligned until the body heals the fracture.

Medical specialties

Orthopedic Surgery · Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery · Orthopedic Trauma Surgery

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Femur fracture (upper leg).