How to Treat Proximal Femoral Fractures: Scientific Exercise Aids Recovery
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The proximal femur is located in the thigh bone, near the hip joint. A fracture in this area is not only very painful but also affects walking and daily activities. So, how should a proximal femur fracture be treated?
01 How to Treat Proximal Femoral Fractures
For patients with proximal femoral fractures, the treatment approach depends on the patient’s specific condition and can generally be divided into two categories: conservative treatment and surgical treatment.
1. Conservative Treatment
Simply put, conservative treatment refers to treatment that does not require surgery. Conservative treatment is appropriate in three situations: first, for patients whose fracture site shows no displacement and remains properly aligned. The second scenario involves patients whose fracture has some displacement but only to a minor degree, and who can be successfully reduced through manual manipulation. The third scenario involves patients in particularly poor general health who are unable to undergo surgery; in such cases, conservative treatment is typically chosen.
2. Surgical Treatment
Patients for whom conservative treatment has failed, those with significant fracture displacement, or those with comminuted fractures may opt for surgical treatment. Prior to surgery, an initial examination must be conducted to determine if there are any contraindications. Then, under anesthesia, an incision is made at the affected site to perform internal reduction and fixation. Rest is also required after surgery to promote bone healing. In the later stages of healing, moderate exercise is permissible; however, patients should not engage in arbitrary movements, as this can easily cause secondary injury to the affected area. Following scientifically guided exercise protocols is the most appropriate approach.
02 Scientific Exercise Methods
Exercise 1: Butterfly Stretch
Key Points: Perform this exercise in a seated position. Keep your upper body upright, cross your legs, place the soles of your feet together with toes pointing forward, and hold your toes with both hands while breathing naturally. You should feel a stretch in your thigh muscles throughout the exercise. Repeat this exercise, doing 2 sets each time, holding each set for 15 seconds.
Exercise 2: Seated Internal Rotation Stretch
Key Points: Perform this exercise in a seated position with your upper body upright and arms hanging naturally at your sides. Place the unaffected leg on the floor with the lower leg at a 90-degree angle to the floor. Keep your legs naturally apart at shoulder width. Gently rotate the affected leg inward—avoid excessive rotation—and maintain even breathing. Repeat this exercise for 2 sets, holding each set for 15 seconds.
Exercise 3: Kneeling Hip Flexor Stretch
Instructions: Perform this exercise in a kneeling position. Keep your upper body upright. Kneel on one knee with the affected leg, and step forward with the unaffected leg so that the thigh is parallel to the ground and the lower leg forms a 90-degree angle with the ground. Raise the arm on the affected side upward, and rest the arm on the unaffected side on the bent knee. Breathe naturally and feel a gentle stretch along the front of your thigh and pelvis. Repeat this exercise for 2 sets, holding each set for 15 seconds.
Exercise 4: Prone Quadriceps Stretch
Instructions: Lie on your back with your upper body straight. Place one leg flat on the ground with your toes pointing upward. Raise the other leg, aiming for a 90° angle with your body, but do not strain. Hold the raised leg with both arms and maintain even breathing. Repeat this exercise, performing 2 sets each time, holding each set for 15 seconds.
The four exercises above can improve lower limb mobility and help prevent postoperative adhesions. However, please note that they should be performed 40 minutes after a meal, 2 to 3 times daily.
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