Hip Pain and Femur Fracture Physiotherapy Treatment in Burlington

The hip is one of the most important joints in the body. It supports body weight, allows movement of the lower limb, and plays a key role in walking, standing, and balance. When the hip joint is injured, painful, or fractured, daily activities can quickly become difficult. Conditions such as hip pain, arthritis, or a femur fracture can significantly affect mobility and independence.

At our physiotherapy clinic in Burlington, we provide evidence-based physiotherapy for hip conditions, including recovery after femur fractures and total hip replacement, with a focus on restoring function, reducing pain, and protecting long-term joint health.

Which body part is the hip?

The hip is a ball and socket joint where the head of the femur fits into the acetabular socket of the bony pelvis. The hip joint connects the pelvis bone to the thigh bone and allows movement in multiple directions. This ball and socket joint permits flexion and extension movement, internal and external rotation, and lateral rotation.

The hip joint connects the upper thigh to the pelvis bone and supports nearly all weight bearing activities. Because of this role, the hip joint must balance mobility with joint stability.

Anatomy of the hip joint

The hip joint is made up of several key structures working together:

• The femoral head, which forms the ball

• The acetabular socket of the bony pelvis

• The acetabular labrum, which deepens the socket and improves joint stability

• The hip joint capsule, a strong envelope that surrounds the joint

• Ligaments such as the iliofemoral ligament, which provide joint stability

• Articular cartilage that protects joint surfaces and maintains smooth motion

Hip stability arises from the shape of the joint, the labrum, the ligaments, and the surrounding hip muscles that provide dynamic support.

Blood supply and nerves of the hip joint

The femoral head blood supply is critical for bone health and healing. Blood reaches the femoral head through several blood vessels, including:

• The femoral artery

• The lateral circumflex femoral arteries

• The obturator artery

• The foveal artery, which supplies almost the entire head in some individuals

Disruption of blood supply can lead to avascular necrosis, a serious condition where bone tissue dies due to reduced blood flow.

The hip joint receives innervations from nerves such as the superior gluteal nerves and the sciatic nerve, which is why hip pain may travel into the upper thigh or lower limb.

What causes hip pain?

There are many causes of hip pain, including:

• Muscle or tendon overload

• Hip joint capsule irritation

• Labral injuries affecting the acetabular labrum

• Joint degeneration or arthritis

• Femur fracture or femoral neck injury

• Reduced joint space or cartilage wear

• Hip pain secondary to lower back or pelvic conditions

Hip pain may be felt in the anterior aspect of the hip, the upper thigh, the buttock, or even the opposite leg. Pain can be sharp, aching, or deep and may worsen during weight bearing.

What is a femur fracture?

The femur, also known as the thigh bone, is the strongest bone in the body. A femur fracture occurs when this bone breaks, often due to trauma or falls. Common fracture types include:

• Femoral neck fractures

• Intertrochanteric fractures

• Femoral shaft fractures

• Fractures of the proximal femur

A fractured femur is a serious injury and often causes severe hip pain, inability to walk, and visible limb changes.

Medical treatment and total hip replacement

Many femur fractures require surgical repair by orthopedic surgeons. In some cases, especially with advanced joint damage, a total hip replacement or total hip arthroplasty may be required.

During a total hip, the damaged femoral head and acetabular socket are replaced with artificial components. Total hip replacement restores joint surfaces, reduces pain, and improves function when conservative care is no longer effective.

Physiotherapy after femur fracture or total hip replacement

Physical therapy after a fracture is essential after a femur fracture or total hip replacement. At Pillars of Wellness, physiotherapy focuses on:

• Protecting the affected limb

• Restoring hip joint movement

• Improving strength in the hip muscles

• Supporting safe weight bearing

• Preventing complications and further injury

Physiotherapists also assess patient reported outcomes to guide progression and ensure recovery aligns with goals.

Rehabilitation phases

Early phase

• Pain control and swelling management

• Safe transfers and walking aids

• Education on hip precautions

Mid-phase

• Restoring flexion and extension movement

• Strengthening hip abductors and hip flexors

• Improving joint stability

Advanced phase

• Gait retraining

• Balance and coordination

• Preparing for daily activities and exercise

How serious is a femur fracture?

A femur fracture is a serious injury because it affects mobility, independence, and blood supply to the femoral head. Recovery may take several months, and long-term outcomes depend on bone healing, rehabilitation, and overall health.

Why choose Pillars of Wellness in Burlington

At Pillars of Wellness, we provide structured, evidence-based care for hip conditions, femur fractures, and post-surgical rehabilitation. Our physiotherapists work closely with your healthcare team to ensure safe, progressive recovery.

We focus on:

• Restoring hip joint function

• Reducing hip pain

• Improving strength and balance

• Supporting long-term joint health

Start your recovery today

If you are experiencing hip pain, recovering from a femur fracture, or preparing for or recovering from total hip replacement, our team at Pillars of Wellness is here to help you move forward with confidence.

Book your physiotherapy assessment today and take the next step toward better movement and recovery.

Frequently Asked Question

What is the hip joint?

The hip joint is a ball and socket joint where the femoral head fits into the acetabular socket of the pelvis. It allows movement in many directions while supporting body weight during standing, walking, and daily activities.

What are early signs of hip problems?

Early signs of hip problems include stiffness, reduced range of motion, pain in the groin or upper thigh, discomfort during weight bearing, or hip pain that worsens with walking or prolonged sitting.

What causes hip pain?

Hip pain can be caused by muscle strain, joint irritation, labral injuries, arthritis, femur fractures, reduced joint space, or problems with blood supply to the femoral head. Sometimes hip pain is secondary to lower back or pelvic conditions.

How serious is a femur fracture?

A femur fracture is a serious injury because the femur is the main weight-bearing bone of the leg. It often requires surgery and structured physiotherapy to restore movement, strength, and independence.

Can you walk with a fractured femur?

Most people cannot safely walk on a fractured femur without treatment. Surgery and physiotherapy are usually required before gradual weight bearing can resume under medical guidance.

How long does it take for a femur fracture to heal?

Bone healing often takes several months. Functional recovery may continue for 6–12 months or longer, depending on the fracture type, surgery, overall health, and rehabilitation consistency.

Can physiotherapy help after total hip replacement?

Yes. Physiotherapy after total hip replacement improves strength, mobility, balance, and walking ability while reducing pain and lowering the risk of future injury.