Femoral Neck Fractures: Recovery and Concerns for Young Adults

Femoral neck fracture

Hello Doctor: I am 22 years old.
I suffered a non-displaced fracture of the left femoral neck in a car accident on December 11.
The physician I consulted recommended a treatment approach without the use of nails, and I have been using crutches.
I took anti-inflammatory and pain relief medication for two weeks and stopped once the pain subsided.
I have been returning for weekly follow-ups and X-rays, and it has been a month since the injury.
I have a few questions I would like to ask you: 1.
When I sit on a flat floor and bend my knee, I cannot bring my left thigh close to my body and feel something is stuck in the groin area, but I can bring it together when my leg is straight.
What could be the reason for this? 2.
Is it okay for me to perform leg raises in my current condition? I do not have any bad habits, but I am concerned about the possibility of developing symptoms of avascular necrosis.
3.

DAN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/01/09

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

It has been almost a month since the fracture, and fractures typically do not heal within this timeframe.
Healing usually takes about three months.
The range of motion in the hip joint may be reduced and will take some time to recover.
There is a risk of avascular necrosis of the femoral head, which requires continuous monitoring to determine.

Reply Date: 2011/01/09

More Info

Understanding femoral neck fractures, particularly in young adults, is crucial for ensuring proper recovery and addressing any concerns that may arise during the healing process. A femoral neck fracture, especially one without displacement, can often be managed conservatively, as you have experienced. Here’s a detailed response to your questions and additional insights into the recovery process.

1. Feeling of Something Caught in the Groin Area: The sensation you describe—feeling as if something is caught in the groin when bending your knee—could be attributed to several factors. After a femoral neck fracture, the surrounding muscles and soft tissues may become tight or develop scar tissue, which can lead to discomfort or a sensation of restriction. Additionally, the joint may still be inflamed or not fully healed, which can contribute to this feeling. It’s also possible that the hip joint itself is not moving as freely as it should due to stiffness from immobilization. Gentle stretching and mobility exercises, as advised by your physical therapist, can help alleviate this sensation over time.

2. Leg Raises and Safety Concerns: Performing leg raises is generally a safe and beneficial exercise during your recovery, as it helps strengthen the muscles around the hip and improve mobility. However, it’s essential to ensure that you are not experiencing pain while doing these exercises. If you feel any sharp pain or discomfort, you should stop and consult your physician or physical therapist. Regarding your concern about avascular necrosis (AVN), this condition can occur after a femoral neck fracture due to disrupted blood supply to the femoral head. While the risk is present, especially in displaced fractures, your doctor will monitor for signs of AVN through regular follow-up X-rays. If you have no pain and are progressing well, the likelihood of developing AVN is lower, but it’s essential to remain vigilant for any changes in your symptoms.

3. General Recovery Timeline and Concerns: Recovery from a femoral neck fracture can vary significantly among individuals, especially in young adults. Generally, non-displaced fractures can heal within 6 to 12 weeks, but this timeline can be influenced by factors such as your overall health, adherence to rehabilitation protocols, and any complications that may arise. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding weight-bearing activities and physical therapy. Engaging in low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, may be beneficial as you progress, but high-impact activities should be avoided until you receive clearance from your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while your recovery seems to be on track, it’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare team. Regular follow-ups and imaging studies will help ensure that your healing process is proceeding as expected. If you have any concerns about your symptoms or recovery, do not hesitate to reach out to your physician for guidance. Remember, patience and adherence to rehabilitation are key components of a successful recovery from a femoral neck fracture.

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