Hip Fracture Treatment in Los Angeles

A hip fracture is one of the most serious orthopedic injuries, often resulting from trauma or a fall and frequently requiring urgent surgical treatment. These injuries can significantly affect mobility, independence, and overall health, particularly in older adults. Prompt diagnosis and expert care are critical to restoring function and minimizing long-term complications.

Patients in Los Angeles with hip fractures are evaluated by Dr. Farzin Kabaei, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with specialized training in joint reconstruction and the management of complex hip injuries. Dr. Kabaei completed orthopedic surgery training at Montefiore / Albert Einstein Medical Center and advanced fellowship training at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where he gained experience treating both traumatic fractures and advanced joint conditions.

Throughout his clinical practice, Dr. Kabaei has treated patients ranging from active individuals with high-impact injuries to older adults with fragile bone conditions. His approach focuses on accurate diagnosis, surgical precision when needed, and structured recovery planning, all of which are essential in hip fracture care. Because these injuries often involve more than just a broken bone, careful evaluation of surrounding cartilage, soft tissue, and long-term joint health is critical.

What Is a Hip Fracture?

A hip fracture is a break in the upper portion of the femur (thighbone) near the hip joint. The fracture typically occurs in one of three areas:

• the femoral neck (just below the ball of the joint)
• the intertrochanteric region (between the neck and shaft)
• the subtrochanteric region (below the hip joint)

These fractures disrupt the normal structure and function of the hip joint, often making it impossible to stand, walk, or bear weight.

Hip fractures are considered serious because they frequently require surgery and can lead to complications affecting mobility, independence, and overall health.

Why Hip Fractures Are a Serious Medical Condition

Hip fractures are not only orthopedic injuries—they are often life-changing events, particularly in older adults.

Research shows:

• 15–30% of patients may die within one year of a hip fracture
• fewer than half of patients fully regain their previous level of independence
• risk of complications increases significantly with delayed treatment

These statistics highlight why hip fractures require immediate evaluation and coordinated medical care, including surgical treatment and rehabilitation.

Common Causes of Hip Fractures

Hip fractures most commonly occur due to:

Falls

Falls are responsible for over 95% of hip fractures in older adults

Even a fall from standing height can cause a fracture in individuals with weakened bone density.

Trauma

In younger patients, hip fractures are more often caused by:

• motor vehicle accidents
• sports injuries
• high-impact falls

These injuries typically involve greater force and may be associated with additional trauma.

Bone Weakness (Osteoporosis)

As bone density decreases with age, the risk of fracture increases significantly. Osteoporosis is one of the leading contributors to hip fractures, particularly in adults over 65.

Symptoms of a Hip Fracture

Hip fractures usually produce immediate and severe symptoms.

Common signs include:

• inability to stand or walk
• severe pain in the hip or groin
• inability to bear weight
• visible shortening of the leg
• outward rotation of the affected leg
• swelling or bruising around the hip

These symptoms require urgent medical evaluation.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

A hip fracture should always be treated as an emergency.

Patients should seek immediate care if they experience:

• severe hip pain after a fall or trauma
• inability to stand or walk
• visible deformity of the leg
• sudden loss of mobility

Early treatment improves outcomes and reduces the risk of complications such as blood clots, infection, and long-term disability.

Diagnosing a Hip Fracture

Diagnosis begins with a physical examination and imaging studies.

During evaluation, Dr. Kabaei assesses:

• hip alignment and stability
• ability to move or bear weight
• pain patterns
• signs of associated injuries

Imaging tests typically include:

X-rays, which confirm the presence and location of the fracture
CT scans, used for more complex fracture patterns
MRI scans, which can detect subtle or stress fractures

Accurate diagnosis is essential to determining the most appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Hip Fractures

Most hip fractures require surgical treatment, particularly when the fracture is displaced or unstable.

The type of surgery depends on the location and severity of the fracture.

Surgical Treatment

Surgical options may include:

• internal fixation using screws or plates
• hip pinning procedures
• partial hip replacement
• total hip replacement in cases of severe joint damage

Modern surgical techniques focus on restoring alignment, stabilizing the joint, and allowing early movement.

Non-Surgical Treatment

In rare cases, non-surgical treatment may be considered for patients who cannot safely undergo surgery.

This approach typically involves:

• limited movement
• pain management
• supportive care

However, most patients benefit from surgical intervention to restore mobility.

Recovery After Hip Fracture Surgery

Recovery following a hip fracture is a structured process that involves both surgical healing and rehabilitation.

Typical recovery includes:

• early mobilization after surgery
• physical therapy to restore strength and balance
• gradual return to walking and daily activities

Most patients begin moving with assistance shortly after surgery. Recovery timelines vary depending on overall health, fracture severity, and treatment approach.

Preventing Long-Term Complications

Hip fractures can lead to complications if not managed properly.

Potential complications include:

• blood clots
• infection
• loss of independence
• decreased mobility
• long-term joint degeneration

Early treatment, proper surgical care, and guided rehabilitation are essential to minimizing these risks.

Relationship Between Hip Fractures and Other Hip Conditions

Hip fractures can affect long-term joint health and may lead to additional orthopedic conditions.

These may include:

• hip arthritis, especially after cartilage damage
• joint instability
• decreased range of motion

In cases where the joint cannot be preserved, procedures such as hip replacement surgery may be necessary to restore function and relieve pain.

Hip Fracture Treatment in Los Angeles

Hip fractures require a coordinated approach that includes diagnosis, surgical care, and structured recovery.

Dr. Farzin Kabaei provides comprehensive treatment for patients with hip fractures in Los Angeles. His experience in both joint reconstruction and trauma-related conditions allows him to evaluate the full extent of injury and guide patients through recovery with a focus on restoring mobility and long-term joint health.

The goal of treatment is not only to repair the fracture, but to help patients return to independence, regain strength, and reduce the risk of future injury.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hip Fractures

Are hip fractures always treated with surgery?

Most hip fractures require surgery, particularly if the bone is displaced or unstable.

How long does it take to recover from a hip fracture?

Recovery varies but often takes several months, including rehabilitation and physical therapy.

Why are hip fractures dangerous in older adults?

They increase the risk of complications, loss of mobility, and long-term health decline.

Can hip fractures be prevented?

Fall prevention, maintaining bone density, and staying active can reduce the risk.

Will I be able to walk again after a hip fracture?

Many patients regain mobility with proper treatment and rehabilitation, although recovery depends on overall health and injury severity.