Fracture of the femoral neck

Fracture of the femoral neck is a frequent injury incurred by old and very old people. Old people fall more frequently than young people. The bone is often also pre-stressed by osteoporosis and can fracture even under minimum levels of force. Fracture of the femoral neck is a serious injury. It can often result in a walking impediment and the loss of independence. There are several reasons why older people in particular suffer more frequent falls. Health factors which can occur to an increasing extent as age rises very often play an important role. The most significant health risks include:

• Osteoporosis
• Problems with walking and balance
• Excessively low blood pressure or a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up
• General physical weakness
• Neuromuscular diseases (Parkinson’s, senile dementia)
• Impaired hearing and vision
• Frequent fits of dizziness
• Medication which can affect responsiveness and perception

 Falls and their serious consequences can be prevented by:

• Systematic exercise of the musculature
• Training to improve the sense of balance and coordination
• Wearing a hip protector
• Removing sources of danger around the house
• Equipping accommodation areas in an appropriate manner for the inhabitant’s age