Fractures are always troublesome. Depending upon the cause of the condition, they can either create more trouble or less trouble, but trouble will be there. Numerous causes of a fracture are there, and they could affect people of all age groups. Traumas like automobile accidents, sports injuries, falling from a height, and a direct impact on a solid object are some of the common causes of fracture. Besides this, certain other conditions may also result in fractures and among them, osteoporosis is common. Osteoporotic fractures could be severe that require surgery for treatment and this may require trauma implants as well.
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In this post, we will discuss the relationship between osteoporosis and fracture. Before we move ahead, let us start with a brief introduction to osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis – An Overview
Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by brittle and weak bones. It mostly affects the elderly above 55 years of age. Age-related degeneration of bones is the commonest cause of osteoporosis.
Our body reaches maximum bone density by the age of 30, and after that, the rate at which new bone forms decreases when compared to the speed of old bone deterioration. Thus, as age increases, the bones start to become weaker while making them prone to developing osteoporosis.
People suffering from severe osteoporosis can get fractures with simple falls, while doing daily activities, or even coughing. The commonest locations where osteoporosis-related fractures are seen include the hip, wrist, and spine.
Symptoms of Osteoporotic Fractures
Osteoporosis does not show symptoms in the early stages, and in most cases, the first symptom seen in people with osteoporosis is a fracture. Thus, consulting a specialist is a must for the right diagnosis of the condition. Some of the common symptoms associated with osteoporotic fractures include:
- Pain in the hip, thigh, or groin
- Popping sounds that are frequently felt in the hip
- Difficulty in walking or using the area affected by osteoporosis
- A leg that appears to be rotated despite being straight
Diagnosis of Osteoporotic Fractures
Diagnosis of osteoporotic fractures is not easy as no visible symptoms of osteoporosis may be noticed except the fracture. Thus, a careful and detailed diagnosis is required to confirm that the fracture has occurred due to osteoporosis.
So, a complete medical history check is required to identify the sign of osteoporosis. Besides this, physical examination of the fracture site is also examined for the range of motion and painful areas. Imaging tests are also required to confirm the condition, and they may include x-rays, CT-scan, MRIs, and/or bone scans. Not all tests are performed in all cases as they are ordered if a few tests cannot provide any conclusive reports.
Treatment of Osteoporotic Fractures
The treatment of osteoporotic fractures will depend upon the location and severity of the condition. In most cases, external bracing, and analgesics along with NSAIDs are prescribed to treat fractures. The healthcare service provider may also suggest calcium and vitamin D supplements to maintain bone mineral density. For compression fractures in the spine, vertebroplasty may be suggested.
Bracing is usually done in stable fractures to prevent worsening the condition. Besides this, bracing is also suggested for those who cannot tolerate the surgical procedure, or the chances of successful surgery are low.
Surgery is occasionally done to treat osteoporotic fractures, especially when they cannot be fixed using non-surgical ways. Orthopedic Implants Plates, screws, pins, and wires may be required during the surgery.
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