Rehabilitation after a femoral neck fracture

The most important goal after a femoral neck fracture is early mobilization. For this reason, patients are mobilized for the first time as early as 24 hours after the operation. This is done under the guidance of a physiotherapist and adequate pain therapy (see: postoperative pain therapy).

During the weeks of in-patient hospital treatment, patients should learn to walk safely with crutches, unless they have received stress-stable treatment. Patients with an artificial hip replacement (see: hip prosthesis) may directly put full weight on the affected leg and should be mobilized as early as possible. In Germany, a stay in hospital (usually 2-3 weeks) is followed by rehabilitation.

The rehabilitation serves to regain the best possible mobility. Patients who are not able to care for themselves at home or whose physiotherapy cannot be ensured on an outpatient basis after the therapy can apply for rehabilitation as inpatients. The prerequisite for the possibility of rehabilitation is a Barthel Index of at least 70, which serves to evaluate everyday abilities and the need for care.

After a femoral neck fracture, patients are mobilized again by regular physiotherapy, which also serves to prevent possible late consequences of a femoral neck fracture. In addition, occupational therapy can be used to practice everyday skills again, such as dressing independently after the implantation of an artificial hip. Various exercises serve to speed up recovery: rehabilitation after a fractured neck of femur usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the severity of the injury and the patient’s independence.

Whether and how long rehabilitation is possible depends on the patient’s health insurance company and must be applied for individually. Most, especially older patients, can apply for rehabilitation directly from the clinic. The application is then usually made and approved by the treating physician to the health insurance company.

In addition to exercises to improve mobility, patients also learn breathing exercises to prevent pneumonia after lying down for a long time.
Muscle build-up and strength development after long periods of rest are also part of the rehabilitation and are trained through various exercises and fitness equipment under the supervision of physiotherapists.