At OrthoNeuro in Columbus, Ohio, our orthopedic surgeons offer a range of treatment options for fractures in the femur according to where the fracture occurs. They also provide rehabilitation programs through physical therapy for you to get on your feet and be active again.
What Are the Types of Femur Fractures?
There are four types of femoral fractures according to the severity:
Type 1: Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone. They are a common overuse injury, especially in high-impact sports. They usually occur in weight-bearing bones like the femur.
As the muscles get tired, they take less strain from the shocks in these sports and other activities. As a result, the bone takes up more of the impact, and the bone can crack over time.
Type 2: Severe Impaction Fractures
Impaction fractures occur when the two ends of the bone are forced toward each other by some trauma. The bone then breaks into multiple parts and is forced into each other.
Type 3: Partial Fractures
A partial fracture is when the bone breaks open but not all the way through. It is also known as an incomplete fracture. When the bone does break all the way through, it is referred to as a complete fracture. This could happen in one or more places.
Type 4: Complete Displaced Fractures
A displaced fracture refers to the position of the bone after the break. If the bone breaks away from the proper position, it is referred to as a displaced fracture. So a fracture can be described as either a complete or incomplete displacement fracture.
Femoral Fractures According to Location
Femoral fractures can occur in four different places:
Femoral Head Fractures
These types of fractures are usually stressed fractures that are the cause of pain in the hip joint. They can occur more frequently on long-distance runners and others who participate in repetitive strenuous activities.