Identifying
Different Conditions that Lead to Hip Fractures
A fractured hip is a serious injury that often ends up causing a permanent disability, long-term assistive care, and even death to some of the patients most especially the elderly. However, aside from the gradual weakening of the bones in consequence to ageing, there are medical conditions that make the hip joints more vulnerable to fractures, medical experts say, further explaining the importance of identifying these conditions and finding ways to help minimize the risk of hip fractures.
In younger patients, hip fractures often result from high-impact sports, vehicular accidents, and falls from massive heights. With those who have stronger bones, it usually takes a significantly great force to cause damage to the hip joints. However, in the elderly, hip fractures result even from the mildest forms of physical trauma such as falling from a standing position. This makes it even more necessary to keep the elderly protected from any injury.
Osteoporosis, arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases are some of the most common conditions prevalent in older adults that have been observed to contribute to weakening the bones. People with conditions such as these may have to double their efforts in strengthening their bones and protecting their hips from injuries. In addition to these problems, visual impairments and a decreased mobility may also cause frequent falls among the elderly, making their bones more and more prone to breakage.
People taking antihypertensive medications, water pills, sedatives, and other drugs that may affect balance and cause hypotension or dizziness are also at increased risk for hip fractures. During treatment, it is important that they lie down for a while and avoid operating machineries or doing activities that may cause them to fall.
Vitamin D deficiency is another problem that may lead to hip fracture when not corrected early. This leads to inadequate levels of phosphorus and calcium in the body. Without these important minerals, the bone may soften and become more fragile, a condition known as osteomalacia. This increases the risk for bone deformities and eventually bone breakage.
Patients with past stroke conditions and those with cognitive impairments such as dementia have an increased risk of falling most often due to generalized muscle weakness. Preventive strategies against falls need to be seriously implemented when it comes to patients who have these conditions.
Watching for early signs of bone weakness and promptly addressing it may help minimize the progression of a bone disease that may create problems in the future. Moreover, regular strengthening exercises along with safety measures to protect the hips from injuries are simple steps one can follow to promote bone health and avoid debilitating consequences such as hip fractures. For more information check the DePuy Hip Recall News Center.
References:
orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00392
orthopedics.about.com/cs/hipsurgery/a/brokenhip.htm
emedicine.medscape.com/article/825363-overview
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