Fractures

How common are fractures?

Among individuals, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over the age of 50 will suffer a bone fracture ('fracture') at some point due to osteoporosis. Hip, pelvis and wrist fractures are the most common fractures caused by falls. Vertebral collapses and fractures also occur regularly. These may even occur spontaneously.

Depending on the location, the severity of the fracture and the degree of displacement of the bone fragments in relation to each other, surgery may be necessary. Your age and fitness level will also be taken into account.

Hip fractures usually require surgery, for which the bone fragments are fixed with pins, plates or screws. Your entire hip joint may also need to be replaced. In this case, we refer to it as a total hip replacement. The procedure takes from 30 to 75 minutes, depending on the type surgery. After the surgery, you will complete a rehabilitation process during which you will progressively learn to bear weight and walk again. How long this process takes depends on the type of fracture and surgery, your overall condition (pre- and post-operative), and whether or not a temporary weight-bearing restriction will be imposed. Even if you are temporarily restricted from bearing weight, the physiotherapist will encourage you to start exercising soon after the surgery to stimulate your circulation and strengthen your muscles. Gait rehabilitation is initiated as soon as possible, with the help of a walking aid. On average, it takes three to four months to heal from surgery for a hip fracture. It takes about six months to build up your condition. However, the total recovery period after a hip fracture can take up to over a year.

Pelvic fractures usually do not require surgery (Unless it involves very extensive and multiple fractures that result in an unstable and non-intact pelvic ring). Pelvic fractures typically cause groin pain. Through relative rest and gradual weight-bearing under the guidance of a physiotherapist, the fracture will heal on its own. Count on an average of six to twelve weeks for your recovery.

Have you broken a bone and need surgery? You can visit our specialised ortho-G department before and after the surgery.

Latest publication date: 02/08/2024
Supervising author: Dr Desimpelaere Patrick