OSTEOPOROSIS
If you have osteoporosis, treating it is obviously important, but it is also important to do everything to prevent the serious risk that comes with the condition; broken bones. The National Institutes of Health reports that osteoporosis causes more than 1.5 million bone fractures every year.
Broken bones for someone that also has osteoporosis is not only painful and inconvenient, it can also have very permanent and sometimes devastating effects on your health. Here are some facts and tips from Blackstone Orthopedics and Sports Medicine regarding fractures that every person with osteoporosis should know.
- Fractures can happen anywhere and the effects can be serious. The most common fractures are wrist, hip, and spinal. Twenty percent of people over 50 who break their hip will die within a year due to complications.
- As you age, falls become more dangerous due to your body’s muscle tone decreasing. A number of minor risks associated with aging greatly increase the possibility of a fracture or fall.
- Exercising will help improve balance and strength, reducing your risk of falls.
- Wear the proper footwear, wearing the wrong shoes can increase your risk of falling. Avoid sneakers with deep treads, these can trip you up.
- “Fall proof” your home by putting down carpets on potentially slippery floors and installing railings in bathrooms. Keep your home free of clutter to avoid tripping on boxes or piles of clothes.
If you happen to fall and break a bone, Blackstone Orthopedics and Sports Medicine has experienced orthopedic surgeons that will treat your fracture. For more information regarding fractures, visit our website or call to schedule an appointment at any of our 8 locations (800) 725-3037.
