What Is the Treatment for a Dislocated Thigh Bone After a Fall?

Hello,

A dislocation of the thigh bone (hip dislocation) after a fall is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment by an Orthopaedic Surgeon. In many cases, a hip dislocation may also be associated with a fracture of the hip or thigh bone (femur), especially in older adults or after a significant fall. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of permanent joint damage, nerve injury, reduced blood supply to the hip (avascular necrosis), and long-term difficulty in walking.

What Should Be Done Immediately?

• Do not try to move or straighten the injured leg yourself.

• Avoid putting any weight on the affected leg.

• Keep the patient as still as possible.

• Take the patient to the nearest emergency department immediately or call for emergency medical assistance.

How Will the Doctor Diagnose the Injury?

An Orthopaedic Surgeon will perform a clinical examination and may recommend :

• X-ray of the pelvis and hip to confirm the dislocation.

• CT scan to detect any associated fractures or joint injuries.

• MRI in selected cases to evaluate ligament, cartilage, or soft tissue injuries.

Treatment for Thigh Bone Dislocation

The treatment depends on the severity of the injury, whether there is an associated fracture, and the patient's overall condition.

• Emergency Reduction (Repositioning the Joint) :  In many cases, the Orthopaedic Surgeon will reposition the dislocated hip back into its normal position under anesthesia or sedation. This procedure is called closed reduction and should be performed as early as possible to reduce the risk of complications.
  
  

• Surgery (Open Reduction/Internal Fixation) : Surgery may be required if :
  
  

  • There is a fracture along with the dislocation.

  • The hip joint cannot be repositioned by closed reduction.

  • There is damage to the bones, cartilage, ligaments, or surrounding tissues.

  • The hip remains unstable after reduction.
    
    

• Medicines: Pain-relieving medicines, anti-inflammatory medications, and other supportive treatment may be prescribed as required.
  
  

• Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy: After the hip is repositioned or surgery is completed, physiotherapy plays an important role in restoring strength, improving joint movement, and helping the patient return to normal activities safely.
  
  

• Follow-up Care: Regular follow-up visits and X-rays may be required to monitor healing and ensure the hip joint remains stable.

Recovery After Thigh Bone Dislocation Treatment

Recovery usually includes :

• Pain management.

• Limited weight-bearing for a period recommended by the surgeon.

• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises.

• Regular follow-up with X-rays or other imaging to monitor healing.

• Gradual return to walking and daily activities under medical supervision.

The recovery period depends on the severity of the injury and whether surgery was required.

Seek Emergency Medical Attention Immediately If

Please do not delay treatment if the patient has :

• Severe hip or thigh pain.

• Visible deformity or shortening of the leg.

• Inability to stand or walk.

• Numbness or weakness in the leg or foot.

• Loss of sensation or poor blood circulation in the affected leg.

These symptoms require urgent Orthopaedic evaluation.

How HexaHealth Can Assist You

We are a healthcare platform that connects patients with experienced Orthopaedic Surgeons and our network of partner hospitals. We assist with emergency specialist consultations, diagnostic investigations, surgery (if required), insurance guidance, and end-to-end treatment coordination.

• Connect you with experienced Orthopaedic Surgeons.

• Help you find the most suitable partner hospital near your location.

• Assist with emergency consultations, imaging, and surgery if required.

• Guide you regarding health insurance or Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) eligibility, wherever applicable.

• Provide end-to-end support from emergency care to rehabilitation.

Kindly Share the Following Details

• Your City and State.

• Do you have health insurance or an Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) Card?

Based on these details, we will help you connect with the most suitable Orthopaedic Specialist and partner hospital for prompt treatment.

Wishing you and your family good health always.
Warm regards,
Team HexaHealth