Femur Fractures

Overview

The thigh bone, also called the "femur", is the largest and strongest bone in your body. A femur fracture is a crack or a break of this bone.

Causes

You can fracture your femur if you fall hard on your leg. A road accident may cause a fracture. Conditions that weaken your bones make a fracture more likely.

Types of Fractures

Femur fractures can happen near the hip socket, along the shaft (the middle) of the bone, or down near the knee. Your bone may break in a clean line. It may break at an angle or in a spiral pattern. It can break into many pieces. With a very serious break, a piece of bone may pierce through the skin.

Symptoms

If you break your femur, it hurts a lot. You won't be able to put weight on your leg. Your leg may look shorter than normal. It may not be straight.

Treatment

Most femur fractures need surgery. You may need a cast or a brace. Physical therapy is an important part of recovery. Your healthcare provider can create a care plan that is right for your needs.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.