Focus on Fractures

Osteoporosis-related fractures are a serious problem and can dramatically change a person’s life, affecting health and independence. When bones are weak and fragile as a result of osteoporosis, the slightest stress can cause a fracture. Though fractures can occur anywhere in the body, they most commonly affect the spine, hip and wrist.

Spinal fractures

Woman in their forties begin to lose about 1 percent of bone in their spine each year. Once they reach menopause, this number increases to about 3 percent per year. This makes spinal fractures a major concern for women who are at risk for, or who have, osteoporosis.

When the vertebrae become weak, movements such as bending or twisting place extra stress on the spine. The result, unfortunately, can be a fracture. These fractures are often referred to as compression fractures, or collapsed vertebrae. A single spinal fracture can result in height loss. When multiple fractures occur, stooped posture and a condition known as “Dowager’s hump” can also occur.

The main symptom of collapsed vertebrae is severe back pain. The pain can be so severe that it is difficult to sleep or even sit in a chair because the fractured vertebrae are not able to support the body. Although there is no way to restore the vertebrae to its original condition, your doctor may prescribe medications and therapy to reduce pain and strengthen the back.

Hip fractures

For those who experience a hip fracture, the return to independence can be a challenge. Within one year of injury, 10 to 20 percent die from related complications and as many as a quarter of those who survive require nursing home care.

The “hip bone” is actual several bones that come together to form the hip joint. The uppermost part of the femur (large thighbone) fits into the hip socket creating the ball and socket joint. Most hip fractures occur in this area. If a patient has osteoporosis, even a simple fall can cause a hip fracture. Depending on the severity and location of the fracture, surgery may be necessary to repair the fracture.

Diagnosing and treating fragile bones, as well as practicing fall prevention, can help reduce the risks associated with hip fractures.

Wrist fractures

Unlike the spine and hip, the wrist is not a weight-bearing joint. However, if you have osteoporosis, a simple fall can cause the wrist bones to fracture. Most wrist fractures require a cast, but in some cases, surgery may be necessary.

Prevent fractures

A person who is physically fit and active before a fracture has a better chance of suffering fewer complications and may regain strength and flexibility faster than someone in poor general condition. Therefore, it’s important to engage in regular physical activity to build bone strength. Also, be sure to get plenty of calcium and vitamin D in your diet and through supplementation.

You can also prevent a fall-related fracture by considering an exercise program such as tai chi or yoga to help improve balance and by using the following home safety measures.

• If your vision is impaired, make sure your home is adequately lit. Adequate lighting should also be present if you need to use the bathroom during the night.
• Move furniture toward the center of the room, where it can be used for support or to break a fall.
• Remove all throw (scatter) rugs. Beware of wet or slippery floors, and equip stairways with handrails.
• Be cautious when you’re around pets, especially larger dogs. Tripping over pets is a common cause of falls.
• Purchase a cane or walker, and use it in your home to help with balance.
• Wear footwear with adequate traction. Some slippers have little traction.
• Place the phone low enough that, if you fall, you can crawl to it and reach it from the floor. Consider keeping a cordless or cell phone with you at all times, even in the house.
• Set up a daily routine or signal that can alert a relative or neighbor that you are well -— i.e., a phone call or pulling the window blinds up or down.
• Wear a medical radio-alarm system or place one in an accessible area of your home.
• If you are unstable rising out of chairs, sit in chairs with arms, and use the arms to balance yourself as you stand.
• Rise out of bed slowly in the morning and when you need to get up during the night. Always sit on the edge of the bed for a moment before you stand.
• If your stairs are dangerous, go up and down on your backside. It’s less dignified but safer than trying to climb the stairs while standing upright.
• In the bathroom, place grab bars and/or fixtures on the wall near the toilet, shower and bathtub. A bath seat can be purchased for use inside bathtubs and showers. Bathtub safety rails and commode seats with arms can also be installed in your home.
• Non-skid mats should be placed inside the showers and bathtubs, as well as on the floor next to the shower stall or tub.