A femoral neck fracture is when the top part of the thigh bone (femur), just below the ball of the hip joint, breaks. It’s a serious injury because it can disrupt blood supply to the hip, affecting healing. It often occurs after a fall in older adults or high-impact trauma (like a car accident) in younger people.

An analogy…

Think of the femur like a tree, with the femoral neck as the thin trunk right before the branches. If that thin part snaps, the whole upper part (the ball) becomes unstable, and it’s much harder for it to stay healthy and grow back properly.

What are other names that a femoral neck fracture can be called?

Fractured Neck of Femur

What causes a femoral neck fracture?

The femoral neck connects the shaft of the femur to the head that sits inside the hip socket. It’s a thinner, more vulnerable area, especially in older adults with weaker bones (osteoporosis). When a strong force is placed on the hip, like from a fall or direct blow, the bone can crack or break. If the blood vessels that supply the femoral head are damaged, it can lead to complications like avascular necrosis (bone death).

What are the signs and symptoms of a femoral neck fracture?

• Severe pain in the hip or groin immediately after injury
• Inability to bear weight or walk on the affected leg
• Shortened or externally rotated leg
• Swelling, bruising, or tenderness around the hip
• Limited or painful hip movement

What tests are used to diagnose a femoral neck fracture?

Physical examination: Checking for deformity, swelling, and pain

Palpation: Feeling for tenderness along the hip and femoral neck

X-rays: the main test to confirm a break and assess how displaced it is

How long does a femoral neck fracture take to heal?

Non-displaced fractures may heal in 8 to 12 weeks after surgical pinning or conservative care. Displaced fractures often need surgical repair or hip replacement and can take 3 to 6 months for full recovery. Regaining full strength, mobility, and independence can sometimes take up to a year, especially in older adults.

How does a femoral neck fracture happen?

• Falls, especially in the elderly
• Osteoporosis
• Direct trauma
• High-impact sports or activities in younger individuals
• Chronic conditions like diabetes or arthritis that affect bone strength

What treatment can help a femoral neck fracture?

• Displaced fractures usually require realignment under anaesthetic followed by surgical fixation 
• Walking aids or crutches are used for several weeks during recovery
• Hip replacement may be recommended
• Non-displaced fractures may be treated with crutches and/or bed rest.

What exercises or stretches can I do for a femoral neck fracture?

• Early gentle range of motion exercises for the hip and knee
• Ankle pumps and circulation drills
• Progressive weight-bearing exercises using a walker or crutches
• Strengthening exercises for the glutes, quadriceps, and core

What products can help with a femoral neck fracture?

• KT Pilates Band Pack
• Wheatbag