With aging comes a greater chance of injury. Hip fractures, for example, are hard to recover from and are especially common.
American hospitals admit over 300,000 seniors per year due to broken hips, nearly always caused by a fall. This type of injury can affect young individuals on a job site, as well as those over age 65.
Diagnostic imaging
Seek medical attention for a painful fall at work so your doctor can use an x-ray to confirm whether you have a hip fracture. You may need an MRI if a hairline fracture remains unclear, but you have abnormal hip and leg positioning.
Treatment options
The severity of your injury may dictate your recovery options, considering age and overall health as additional factors.
Depending on the extent of your hip fracture, your provider may suggest surgical treatments like:
- Screw insertion
- Partial hip replacement
- Total hip replacement
Medication and rehabilitation are standard components of a treatment plan as well.
Recovery time
Though you might be up and moving again soon after surgery, you should anticipate an extended leave from work as you heal.
Physical therapy can help you increase strength and range of motion. Occupational therapy may help you regain independence with daily activities.
Financial compensation
The financial stress of missed time from work, appropriate health care and rehabilitation may seem devastating after fracturing your hip at work. Thankfully, you can file a workers’ compensation claim to cover the overwhelming expense of this type of injury.
You can familiarize yourself with the state’s approved Medical Treatment Guidelines. Meanwhile, remember you have access to a system that can help you with your monetary needs for injuries sustained at work.