Here's an informative post today from John's Hopkins Medicine on Osteoporosis and Hip Fractures.
The Sobering Facts About Hip Fracture
Many people fear hip fractures, and with good reason. Of all types of fractures, hip fractures have the most significant impact on the quality of life.
Alarmingly, close to 25 percent of those over age 50 who break a hip will die within a year. In addition, 40 percent are unable to walk independently a year after they've broken a hip, and 60 percent are unable to perform basic activities of daily living, such as dressing themselves. Because of these devastating consequences, preserving and boosting bone mass and preventing falls and fractures are crucial.
A hip fracture usually occurs when a person falls from a standing position, with the hip taking the impact of the fall, although less traumatic falls also can cause hip fractures. More than 90 percent of the 350,000 hip fractures that occur each year in the United States are the result of a fall. The rate of hip fracture begins to increase at age 50, doubling every five to six years. Nearly half of women who reach age 90 have had a hip fracture. Men account for nearly 30 percent of hip fractures.
The risk factors for a hip fracture are:
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- being older than age 65
- being female
- having a family history of fractures later in life
- low body weight
- poor nutrition
- smoking or excessive alcohol use
- mental impairment
- poor eyesight
- unsteady balance
- frailty
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What to expect. The symptoms of hip fracture are not subtle. They include pain in the groin or buttock, inability to put weight on the leg on the affected side, or pain when trying to bear weight. Hip fractures may also interrupt the nerves or blood vessels that supply the leg. All hip fractures require surgical repair or replacement, and treatment is often required for injuries related to the fall, such as head injuries.
Additionally, it is vitally important to note that the reported overall mortality (or death) rate for hip fractures is 15-20% (1 out of 5). Yet in older persons this can increase to 36% (over 1 out of three) over the year following hip fracture. These numbers are significant, and should motivate anyone at risk or potentially at risk of hip fracture due to osteoporosis or osteopenia to seek out appropriate medical attention. However, one must also be fully aware of the risks associated with osteoporosis medications like; Fosamas, Boniva, or Actonel.
Our offices provide a non-pharmaceutical, proven, NATURAL way to safely and quickly reverse osteoporosis and significantly reduce the risk of hip fractures. That's why we offer a complimentary Osteoporosis Reversal Visit at the South Coast Spine Center when you call: 619-472-2225. Just tell our representative that you read this blog post and would like to schedule your FREE Consultation with Dr. Bell, and we can get you started on your way to healthier, stronger bones!
Yours in excellent Health . . . and more durable, longer lasting, healthier and stronger bones!
Dr. Bruce Bell, D.C., Q.M.E., Doctor of Chiropractic, Qualified Medical Evaluator, American Academy of Spine Physicians
619-472-2225
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