Hip Fracture Prevention

Hip fractures are breaks in the thighbone (femur) just below the hip joint. They are significant injuries which usually take place in folks aged 65 and older. Women are especially susceptible to hip fractures. However, whether you are male or female, Dr. Kathleen Weaver is your best orthopedic specialist in Mexico, MO. For people inside the Central Missouri area, you can go to Dr. Weaver at Audrain Orthopaedics.

Hip fractures can restrict mobility and self-reliance. Most hip fractures call for surgical treatment, a hospital stay, and extended recovery.

Many people who previously lived independently before hip fracture need assistance afterward. This can range from help from family members and home health professionals, to admittance to a nursing home or some other long-term health facility.

Cause

The majority of hip fractures are caused by factors which weaken bone tissue, combined with the impact from a fall.

Bone Strength

Bone strength decreases as we get older. Bones can become extremely weak and delicate-- a problem called osteoporosis. Osteoporosis frequently forms in females after menopause, and in guys in older age. This bone-thinning condition puts folks at increased danger for broken bones, particularly fractures of the hip, wrist, and spine.

Risk Factors

Many of the factors which put you at greater risk for a hip fracture are those that cause bone loss.

• Age. The risk for hip fractures increases as we grow older. In 2010, more than 80% of the people hospitalized for hip fractures were age 65 and older, according to the National Hospital Discharge Survey (NHDS).
• Gender. In 2010, 72% of hip fractures within individuals aged 65 and older occurred in females (NHDS).
• Heredity. A family history of osteoporosis or perhaps broken bones in later life sets you at increased risk for a hip fracture. Individuals with small, thin builds are also at risk.
• Nutrition. Low body weight and substandard nutrition, including a diet low in calcium and Vitamin D, could make you more susceptible to bone tissue loss and hip fracture.
• Lifestyle. Smoking, extreme alcohol use, and lack of exercise can weaken bone tissues.

Along with factors that impact bone stamina, things which put you at increased risk for falling can increase the probability of hip fracture.

• Physical and mental impairments. Physical frailty, arthritis, unsteady balance, inadequate eyesight, senility, dementia and/or Alzheimer's disease can raise the likelihood of falling.
• Medications. Many medications can influence balance and stamina. Side effects of some medicines can also include drowsiness and dizziness.

Preventing Hip Fractures

Home Safety

Most hip fractures occur due to a fall, and the majority of falls occur in the home. Many falls could be prevented by basic home safety improvements, such as removing clutter, providing enough lighting, and installing grab bars in bathrooms.

Exercise

Moderate exercise can decrease bone loss and maintain muscle strength. It can also improve balance and coordination. Good exercise options include climbing stairs, jogging, hiking, swimming, dancing, and weight training.

Balance training and tai chi have been demonstrated to decrease falls and reduce the danger of hip fracture. Tai chi is a program of exercises, breathing, and movements based on ancient Chinese procedures. These courses can also increase self-confidence and improve body balance.

Be sure to talk to your physician if you are just starting an exercise program.

Understand Your Health and Medications

Every year, make sure to have an eye exam, in addition to a physical which includes an assessment for cardiac and blood pressure problems. Talk with your doctor regarding the side effects of any medicines and over-the-counter drugs you take. It is useful to keep an up-to-date list of all medications you take to ensure that you can provide it to any other doctors with whom you consult.

Maintain Your Bone Health As You Age

As we age, our bones are impacted by genetics, nutrition, exercise, and hormone loss. We can not alter our genes, but we can manage our nutrition and activity level, and if necessary, take osteoporosis medicines.

There are things you can do to preserve and even improve your bone strength.

• Recognize your individual risk for bone fracture. This is based on any risk factors you have for fracture and your bone density. Talk to your doctor if you need a bone density test.
• Recognize your individual risk for bone loss. Genetics plays a role in bone health, and some individuals have genetically identified high rates of bone turnover following menopause or with aging. Speak with your doctor about bone metabolism testing. Bone metabolism testing can supply additional information regarding your risk for fracture.
• Make healthy and balanced lifestyle choices. Keep a healthy weight and eat a diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D. Do not smoke and restrict your alcohol intake.
• Think about bone-boosting medications. Aside from calcium and Vitamin D supplements, there are numerous drug options which slow bone loss and improve bone strength. Talk to your doctor about these methods for safeguarding your bones.

If you do not have an orthopedic specialist, that is something you will certainly wish to get taken care of. Do not wait until you have a hip fracture to get that dealt with. Speak to a specialist like Dr. Kathleen Weaver to give you more information about how to prevent a hip fracture.