Why is a healthy hip important?

The hip joint is designed for both mobility and stability, allowing the entire lower extremity to move in three planes of motion. The hip provides an important shock absorption function to the torso and upper body as well as stability during standing and other weight bearing activities.

Anatomy of the hip

The hip is actually a ball and socket joint, uniting two separate bones – the femur and the pelvis.

Most people break their hip near the upper part of the femur, usually where the thighbone fits into the hip joint. The type of surgery you will have and how long it will take to heal depends on where your fracture is located.