Surgery for hip fracture should be planned to allow patients to achieve weight-bearing as tolerated, without restriction, within 24 hours following surgery. Full weight-bearing enables early mobilization, supports patients’ return to their pre-fracture level of mobility, and reduces the risk of adverse events associated with restricted weight-bearing and prolonged immobility. All modern hip fracture implants are designed to facilitate full weight-bearing.
In rare situations where younger patients experience displaced femoral neck fractures and undergo reduction and fixation, a period of ‘toe-touch’ weight-bearing may be appropriate.
In any situation where a hip fracture patient is discharged from hospital without being capable of full weight-bearing, detailed orders, including the rationale for and duration of the patient’s weight-bearing status, should be clearly documented and communicated to the patient’s post–acute care providers.