Fragility Fractures

What are they?
Fragility fractures are bone fractures that occur as a result of minor trauma or activities of daily living that would not typically cause fractures in healthy bones. These fractures are often associated with decreased bone density and strength, making bones more susceptible to breaking under minimal force.

What can I do?

1. Bone Health Awareness: Understand factors that contribute to bone fragility, such as aging, osteoporosis, and certain medical conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism).
2. Diet and Nutrition: Consume a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health. Calcium-rich foods include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight exposure and dietary sources like fatty fish and fortified dairy products.
3. Physical Activity: Engage in weight-bearing exercises such as walking, jogging, dancing, or resistance training to promote bone strength and density. Balance and flexibility exercises can also help reduce the risk of falls.
4. Fall Prevention: Modify your home environment to reduce fall risks, such as removing trip hazards, installing grab bars in bathrooms, and ensuring adequate lighting.
5. Medical Evaluation: Discuss your risk factors for fragility fractures with your healthcare provider. They may recommend bone density testing (DEXA scan) and prescribe medications or supplements to improve bone density and reduce fracture risk.

Common Medical Treatments

1. Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications such as bisphosphonates, hormone therapy (for postmenopausal women), or other osteoporosis medications to slow bone loss and reduce fracture risk.
2. Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements: If dietary intake is inadequate, supplements may be recommended to ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D levels for bone health.
3. Physical Therapy: For rehabilitation following a fragility fracture, physical therapy may be beneficial to regain strength, mobility, and balance.
4. Surgical Intervention: In severe cases or fractures that do not heal properly, surgery may be necessary to stabilise bones or replace joints affected by osteoporosis-related fractures.
5. Educational Support: Seek information and resources from healthcare providers, osteoporosis clinics, or support groups to learn more about managing osteoporosis and preventing fragility fractures.

When to Consult Your Doctor

• If you experience a sudden, unexplained bone fracture, especially after minor trauma.
• If you have risk factors for osteoporosis or fragility fractures, such as advanced age, family history, or long-term use of certain medications (e.g., glucocorticoids).

Remember

Preventing fragility fractures involves proactive measures to maintain bone health, reduce fall risks, and manage underlying medical conditions that contribute to bone fragility. By adopting a bone-friendly lifestyle, staying informed about osteoporosis prevention strategies, and collaborating with healthcare providers, you can reduce your risk of fragility fractures and maintain optimal bone health as you age.