Osteoporosis: 3 Common Types Of Fractures People Experience

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes the bones to weaken, lose mass, and become very brittle. When a person has osteoporosis, he or she will be much more prone to fractures. Osteoporotic fractures can happen to any bone in the body. Continue reading to learn more about the most common types of fractures people with osteoporosis experience, as well as how these fractures are treated:

Hip Fracture

Fracturing a hip is a real risk for people with osteoporosis, especially as they grow older. In many cases, a hip fracture is the result of a fall; when the bones are brittle and weak, a bad fall can cause a lot of damage to the hip. Most people require surgery in order to repair a fractured hip; an orthopedic surgeon will need to replace or fix the top of the thigh bone that has fractured. Surgery is often done as soon as possible after injury to ensure the best results.

After surgery to repair your hip fracture, you will need to spend several days in the hospital. You will be encouraged to get out of bed as soon as possible, as doing so will help prevent chest infections and blood clots while also encouraging your recovery. Depending on the severity of your hip fracture and your overall health and mobility, you may require rehabilitation services to help you regain normal range of motion.

Wrist Fracture

An osteoporotic wrist fracture is usually treated in the same way as any other fracture in the arms or legs. If you have osteoporosis and break your wrist, you will need to wear a cast for several weeks. After the cast is removed, you may need physical therapy to help regain muscle strength and normal use. If you have a severe wrist fracture, you may need an operation to stabilize and realign the bones in your wrist so they are in the right position.

Compression Fracture

Compression fractures are some of the most common fractures that people with osteoporosis experience. This type of fracture affects the vertebrae in the spine and can be small or large in size. Unlike a hip or wrist fracture, a compression fracture does not require the use of a cast, and surgery is a last resort for severe cases that don't respond to other types of treatment. If you have a compression fracture in your spine, your doctor will most likely prescribe physical therapy and over-the-counter medication to manage discomfort and pain. You will be closely monitored to ensure that your compression fracture fully heals. 

For more information, talk to companies like Radius.