The thought of a hip fracture is rarely at the forefront of anyone’s mind, until it occurs without warning. A hip fracture is a partial or complete break of the femur (thigh bone) where it meets your pelvis.
Hip fractures are very painful, so immediate surgical treatment is often recommended by an orthopedic specialist following a full examination. Most hip fractures are the result of bones becoming thin and weak due to aging and osteoporosis, but fractures do occur in young people due to trauma sustained in athletics, vehicular accidents and more.
Bone density is the amount of bone mineral in bone tissue and serves as a good barometer regarding bone health. As we grow older, if we lose bone density at an expedient rate without sufficient replacement, we can develop osteoporosis and increase chances of a hip fracture.
Unfortunately, women make-up more than 70 percent of all hip fractures. This is because postmenopausal women have a reduced amount of estrogen production, which makes them more vulnerable to osteoporosis and hip fractures.
There are ways to combat potential hip fractures as well as osteoporosis. Discuss the importance of bone health with your provider and see if a bone density test is an option to measure your risk level. Stay active and participate in activities that improve strength and balance, stop smoking and inordinate drinking, increase intake of vitamin D and calcium and explore prescription medication options that prevent bone loss and increase bone growth.
Another way to be pro-active is to analyze personal safety and minimize plausible hazards in your current living environment. Most hip fractures happen at home, but can be prevented by taking simple steps toward safety.
Never underestimate the importance of lighting inside and outside your home – position night lights in a strategic manner to help guide you from your bedroom to the bathroom and other frequently traveled areas in your home. Dimly lit bedrooms and hallways are hazardous and increase the chance of an unnecessary trip/fall. Outdoor lighting is also critical and should be evaluated to establish a safe perimeter for movement. Falling outside present’s significant danger beyond a fracture due to weather and unpredictable temperatures.
Be sure and always keep stairwells clear and keep clutter off the floor. Use pads/non-skid material underneath rugs to reduce movement. Don’t climb ladders or sit/stand on unstable furniture and find an eye specialist you trust to make sure vision is not a liability or concern.
Most hip fractures are a result of a fall, but sometimes hip fractures are not immediately detectable. It is important to recognize symptoms and react quickly to ensure safety and alleviate risk of further injury. Symptoms include hip/knee pain, an inability to stand/walk, lower back pain, bruising or swelling, unusual positioning of the feet and other variables of concern.
As an orthopedic specialist, my goal is to relieve pain and determine what is best for patients to live a full, active life. Bone health is a tremendous litmus test in the aging game as you navigate toward mid-to-late stages of your life. It is important to make good decisions and be passionate about pursuing information related to the musculoskeletal system and develop a positive pathway for prevention aimed at a productive lifestyle. Although it is tough to accept most of us are not young anymore, it is the best medicine for a successful future.
If you have questions regarding bone health, osteoporosis or other health-related issues, please feel free to contact McBride. We offer a variety of specialists that look forward to meeting your healthcare needs.
