Dr. Hemant Sharma
FRCS (England) MRCS (England) DNB
Specialist in Revision Lower Limb ArthroPlasty
Complex Hip, Knee and Sports Injury
Fragility fractures may be caused by low-energy trauma or trauma equivalent to a fall from a standing line, or maybe less. Fragility fractures are a sign of hidden osteoporosis. There is a high risk of another fracture, especially in the first two years after a person suffers from a fragility fracture.
Fragility fracture may occur when the force applied to the bone exceeds its load-bearing ability during trauma. Load-bearing ability is accepted by bone mineral density, microstructure, bone geometry, and quality. It significantly impacts a person’s quality of life as it causes disability and substantial pain and increases the risk of mortality and morbidity.
Osteoporosis is a primary risk factor for this fracture. However, other causes include:
Fragility fractures are common in body parts like the wrist, arm, hip, ribs, pelvis, shoulder, and vertebrae. It also influences the person’s life as it can cause depression, loss of confidence, anxiety, and reduced quality of life. However, a person may also experience the following issues with fragility fracture.
Fragility fracture management needs multidisciplinary care and collaboration. After the injury, a patient must be prepared for a surgical intervention to get through the issue quickly. Acute injury treatment requires orthopedic intervention, but older adults may need additional medical care as an inpatient during and after the fracture surgery, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy. After managing the fragility fracture, one should plan to prevent future injuries.
One should adopt a multi-component exercise program after a fragility fracture to prevent future injuries. It would be best to regularly do prescribed exercise programs which consist of mobility training, challenging balance, progressive resistance training, weight-bearing exercise, posture exercise, functional exercises, and safe movement and lifting strategies. It would help if one encouraged daily moderate to high-impact load-bearing exercise according to one’s capability. Moreover, combining all these exercises with optional nutrition such as dietary protein, adequate calcium, and vitamin D helps to make the bone more robust and prevent future fragility fractures.
Fragility fractures are more common in older adults due to reduced bone density, muscle weakness, and balance issues associated with aging. As bones become weaker, even minor trauma such as a fall from standing height can cause fractures. Fragility fractures most frequently affect the hip, spine, wrist, and shoulder, significantly impacting mobility and independence. These fractures can lead to prolonged recovery, reduced physical activity, and increased risk of future fractures. Early diagnosis and preventive orthopedic care play a crucial role in protecting bone health and reducing complications.
Fragility fractures can severely affect a person’s ability to perform daily activities. Individuals may experience persistent pain, reduced mobility, and difficulty walking or standing. In many cases, fragility fractures can result in loss of independence and increased reliance on caregivers. Reduced activity levels may also contribute to muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and overall decline in physical health. Proper orthopedic treatment, rehabilitation, and strengthening programs help restore mobility and improve quality of life after fragility fractures.
Preventing fragility fractures requires a combination of bone strengthening and fall prevention strategies. Regular weight-bearing exercises help improve bone density and muscle strength, reducing fracture risk. Maintaining adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D supports bone health and improves bone strength. Fall prevention measures such as improving balance, using proper footwear, and maintaining safe home environments are equally important. Early orthopedic evaluation can identify risk factors and help implement effective preventive strategies.
Orthopedic specialists play a vital role in diagnosing and managing fragility fractures. Treatment may include medications, physiotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and surgical intervention in severe cases. Proper treatment ensures correct bone healing and prevents long-term complications. Specialists like Dr. Hemant Sharma, widely regarded as one of the best orthopedics for sports injury in Gurgaon, provide comprehensive care for fracture management, rehabilitation, and prevention of future injuries. Expert orthopedic care helps patients regain mobility and improve long-term bone health.
Rehabilitation is an essential part of recovery after fragility fractures. Physiotherapy helps restore muscle strength, improve flexibility, and enhance balance. Guided rehabilitation programs help patients regain mobility safely and reduce the risk of future falls. Recovery time depends on fracture severity, age, and overall health. Following medical advice, maintaining proper nutrition, and performing recommended exercises significantly improve recovery outcomes and long-term bone strength.
Almost one in four men and one in two women suffer from fragility fractures, which may also cause other fractures in the future as the bone weakens and has reduced load-bearing capacity. However, following preventive measures during and after the treatment helps to make bones stronger, makes them appropriate for load-bearing, and reduces the risk of future injuries.
