Your thighbone, or femur, is the large bone between your knee and your hip. Your femur bends inward at the top. The part of your femur at this bend is called the neck. The rounded end of your femur is called the ball, or femoral head. The head of your femur fits into a socket in your pelvis to form your hip joint. If a break happens anywhere in the top quarter of the femur, it is considered a hip fracture. Most hip fractures occur from falls in older adults. In younger adults, hip fractures are often caused by a direct hit to the side of the hip, such as during a motor vehicle crash or a high fall. Hip fractures happen more often in women. Your risk for hip fractures increases with age. Having weak bones, or osteoporosis, can also increase your risk. Some types of cancer and stress fractures, or stress injuries, can also weaken your bones. Stress fractures are tiny cracks in a bone that can be caused by overuse.
Arthritis in the lower back and pelvic area can cause pain and loss of motion. See how this arthritis develops, who's at risk, and what treatments can help.
Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve sideways. It can develop during childhood or adolescence and can range from mild to severe. This video explains how scoliosis occurs and what treatments are available.
An ankle sprain is one of the most common sports injuries. It occurs when your foot turns in on itself, stretching and weakening the ligaments that bridge the ankle and foot bones. This video explains the possible causes, recommended treatment, and what you can do to prevent a sprain.
Osteoarthritis most commonly affects the knees, hips, spine, and other weight-bearing joints in the body. Sometimes called the "wear and tear" arthritis, advancing age is a risk factor, but so are obesity and severe injury to the joint. This video discusses the symptoms, treatment, and steps you can take to minimize pain from osteoarthritis.
