Breaking or fracturing a hip is a common injury in the geriatric population, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Due to loss of bone density and diseases such as osteoarthritis, older people are most at risk for hip fractures. Surgery is usually required to heal a broken hip, but some lucky individuals may not need an operation. Medication, in some cases, may be able to heal a broken hip without resorting to surgery.
Instructions
1. Allow your doctor to assess your broken hip and to run other tests, if needed, to determine whether you can heal your broken bone without surgery. Your doctor will take X-rays to view the location and severity of the fracture. A bone density test may be performed to evaluate the state of your bone health as well.
2. Receive an infusion of a drug called zoledronic acid to heal your hip. The September 2007 issue of the "New England Journal of Medicine" reported that this medication, which is Food and Drug Administration approved to prevent osteoporosis, can also help heal hip fractures. Zoledronic acid is given intravenously, at intervals up to a year, during a short, 15-minute procedure; your doctor will determine the number and frequency of your treatments. People who are pregnant or who have kidney disease should not use zoledronic acid, according to Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, the makers of a brand name version of the drug called Reclast.
3. Ask your doctor if you should also be taking vitamin D or calcium supplements to help your bones heal. The "New England Journal of Medicine" study found that some participants had very low levels of vitamin D in their systems. Both vitamin D and calcium help bones remain strong.
4. Attend physical therapy if recommended by your doctor. Even if you have received zoledronic acid infusions, your doctor may want you to learn some strengthening exercises or to use mobility aids that help you get around your home to prevent future bone breaks.
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