What are the common types of foot fractures. How are foot fractures diagnosed. What are the treatment options for foot fractures. Can foot fractures be prevented. How long does it take to recover from a foot fracture. What are the symptoms of a foot fracture. When should you seek medical attention for a foot injury.

Common Types of Foot Fractures

Foot fractures are breaks in the bones of the foot that can occur due to various reasons such as falls, twisting injuries, or direct impact. Understanding the different types of foot fractures is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Let’s explore the most common types:

Toe Fractures

Toe fractures are among the most frequent foot injuries. They can affect any toe and any part of the toe. The symptoms typically include:

• Pain in the affected toe
• Swelling around the injured area
• Tenderness when touched
• Discoloration of the toenail

Can toe fractures be diagnosed without X-rays? In some cases, doctors can diagnose toe fractures based on physical examination alone. However, X-rays are often necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the injury.

Metatarsal Fractures

Metatarsal fractures involve the long bones in the middle of the foot. These fractures can be categorized into several types:

1. Stress fractures
2. Lisfranc fracture-dislocations
3. Acute fractures

Metatarsal fractures often occur during sports activities or as a result of repetitive stress on the foot. They can cause significant pain and difficulty in walking.

Sesamoid Fractures

Sesamoid fractures affect the two small round bones at the base of the big toe. These fractures are less common but can be quite painful. They typically occur during activities that involve:

• Running
• Hiking
• Sports with sudden stops and starts

Do sesamoid fractures require surgery? Most sesamoid fractures can be treated conservatively without surgery. However, in severe cases or when conservative treatment fails, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Calcaneus (Heel Bone) Fractures

Fractures of the heel bone, or calcaneus, are usually the result of high-impact injuries. These fractures are often accompanied by injuries to the knee and spine due to the force required to break this sturdy bone. Calcaneus fractures can be particularly challenging to treat and may have long-term implications for foot function.

Causes and Risk Factors of Foot Fractures

Understanding the causes and risk factors of foot fractures can help in prevention and early intervention. The most common causes include:

• Falls from heights
• Twisting injuries
• Direct impact to the foot
• Repetitive stress (especially in athletes)
• Osteoporosis or weakened bones

Are some people more prone to foot fractures than others? Yes, certain factors can increase the risk of foot fractures:

• Age (older adults are at higher risk due to decreased bone density)
• Participation in high-impact sports
• Inadequate footwear
• Certain medical conditions affecting bone strength

Recognizing Symptoms of Foot Fractures

Identifying the symptoms of a foot fracture is crucial for seeking timely medical attention. The most common symptoms include:

• Severe pain, especially when attempting to walk or bear weight
• Swelling in the affected area
• Bruising or discoloration
• Difficulty moving the foot or toes
• Visible deformity in severe cases

Can the severity of pain indicate the type of fracture? While pain intensity can provide some clues, it’s not a reliable indicator of fracture severity. Even hairline fractures can cause significant pain, while some severe fractures may initially be less painful due to shock.

Diagnosis of Foot Fractures

Accurate diagnosis of foot fractures is essential for proper treatment. The diagnostic process typically involves:

Physical Examination

A thorough physical examination is the first step in diagnosing a foot fracture. The doctor will assess:

• Pain levels and location
• Swelling and bruising
• Range of motion
• Stability of the foot

Imaging Studies

Imaging studies are crucial for confirming the diagnosis and determining the extent of the injury. The most commonly used imaging techniques include:

• X-rays: The primary tool for diagnosing most foot fractures
• Computed Tomography (CT): Used for more detailed imaging, especially in complex fractures
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Helpful in detecting stress fractures and soft tissue injuries

Is it possible to have a foot fracture with normal X-rays? Yes, some fractures, particularly stress fractures, may not be visible on initial X-rays. In such cases, follow-up imaging or advanced techniques like MRI may be necessary for diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Foot Fractures

The treatment of foot fractures varies depending on the location and severity of the fracture. Common treatment approaches include:

Conservative Treatment

Many foot fractures can be treated without surgery. Conservative treatment options include:

• Immobilization with a splint, cast, or specially designed shoe
• Rest and elevation of the affected foot
• Ice therapy to reduce swelling
• Pain medication
• Gradual weight-bearing as tolerated

Surgical Intervention

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to properly align and stabilize the fractured bones. Surgical options may include:

• Internal fixation with screws, plates, or pins
• External fixation for complex fractures
• Bone grafting in cases of bone loss

How long does recovery from a foot fracture typically take? Recovery time varies greatly depending on the type and severity of the fracture. Simple toe fractures may heal in a few weeks, while complex fractures of the heel or midfoot can take several months to a year for full recovery.

Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in recovering from foot fractures. The goals of rehabilitation include:

• Restoring range of motion
• Strengthening muscles around the injured area
• Improving balance and coordination
• Gradually returning to normal activities

Physical therapy often includes specific exercises tailored to the type of fracture and stage of healing. These exercises may focus on:

• Flexibility and stretching
• Strengthening of foot and ankle muscles
• Proprioception and balance training
• Gait training to normalize walking patterns

When can patients start physical therapy after a foot fracture? The timing of physical therapy initiation depends on the fracture type and treatment method. In some cases, gentle exercises may begin shortly after injury, while in others, therapy may be delayed until adequate healing has occurred.

Preventing Foot Fractures

While not all foot fractures can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk:

• Wearing properly fitting, supportive shoes
• Using appropriate protective gear during sports activities
• Gradually increasing intensity in physical activities
• Maintaining good bone health through diet and exercise
• Being cautious on uneven surfaces

Can dietary changes help prevent foot fractures? Yes, a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can help maintain bone strength, potentially reducing the risk of fractures. Regular weight-bearing exercises can also improve bone density.

Long-term Outlook and Potential Complications

The long-term prognosis for foot fractures varies depending on several factors:

• Type and severity of the fracture
• Timeliness and effectiveness of treatment
• Patient’s overall health and age
• Adherence to rehabilitation protocols

Potential complications of foot fractures may include:

• Chronic pain or stiffness
• Development of arthritis in the affected joint
• Malunion or nonunion of the fracture
• Nerve or blood vessel damage
• Complex regional pain syndrome

Do all foot fractures heal completely? While most foot fractures heal well with appropriate treatment, some may result in long-term issues. Factors such as the fracture’s location, severity, and the patient’s overall health can influence the healing process and long-term outcomes.

Understanding foot fractures, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for anyone who has experienced or is at risk of such injuries. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term complications. If you suspect a foot fracture, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly to ensure proper care and management of the injury.

Remember, each foot fracture is unique, and treatment plans should be tailored to the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. By following medical advice, adhering to rehabilitation protocols, and taking preventive measures, individuals can optimize their recovery and reduce the risk of future foot injuries.

Foot Fractures – Injuries and Poisoning

By

Danielle Campagne

, MD, University of California, San Francisco

Reviewed/Revised Dec 2022

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Topic Resources

Fractures of the foot include toe fractures Toe Fractures Any toe and any part of a toe can be fractured. The fractured toe is usually painful, swollen, and tender, and the nail may be discolored. Doctors can often diagnose a toe fracture based on… read more and fractures of the middle bones of the foot (metatarsal fractures Metatarsal Fractures Fractures may occur in the long bones in the middle of the foot (metatarsal bones). There are several different kinds of metatarsal fractures, including stress fractures, Lisfranc fracture-dislocations. .. read more ), the two small round bones at the base of the big toe (sesamoid fractures Sesamoid Fractures Fractures may occur in the two small round bones at the base of the big toe (sesamoid bones). Sesamoid bones may fracture while running, hiking, or participating in sports that involve coming… read more ), or the bones at the back of the foot, including fractures of the heel bone Fractures of the Heel Bone Fractures occur in the heel bone (calcaneus), located at the back of the foot. Heel fractures usually result from great force and thus are often accompanied by knee and spine injuries. If the… read more (calcaneus).

• Foot fractures may be caused by falls, twisting, or direct impact of a foot against a hard object.

• Foot fractures cause considerable pain, which is usually made worse by putting weight on the foot.

• Doctors usually need to take x-rays to diagnose foot fractures.

• Treatment depends on the bone fractured and the type of fracture but usually involves a splint or a shoe or boot specially designed to protect the foot.

(See also Overview of Fractures Overview of Fractures A fracture is a crack or break in a bone. Most fractures result from force applied to a bone. Fractures usually result from injuries or overuse. The injured part hurts (especially when it is… read more .)

Foot fractures are common. They may be caused by falls, twisting, or direct impact of a foot against a hard object.

Foot fractures cause considerable pain, which is almost always made worse by attempting to walk or put weight on the foot.

Where Foot Fractures Occur

• Usually x-rays

(See also Diagnosis of Fractures Diagnosis A fracture is a crack or break in a bone. Most fractures result from force applied to a bone. Fractures usually result from injuries or overuse. The injured part hurts (especially when it is… read more .)

Diagnosis of foot fractures usually requires x-rays, except for certain toe fractures. Rarely, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is required.

Treatment of foot fractures depends on the bone fractured and the type of fracture, but it usually involves placing the foot and ankle in a splint (then sometimes a cast) or a specially designed shoe or boot with open toes, Velcro fasteners, and a rigid sole to protect the foot from further injury.

People are often instructed not to put any weight on the foot for a period of time. How long they have to wait depends on the injury and can take up to several weeks. Often, doctors encourage people to move the foot and ankle as soon as doing so is not too painful.

Physical therapy is often required. It consists of specific exercises to improve flexibility and movement of the affected foot and to strengthen supporting muscles.

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Stress Fractures Foot Ankle | Orthopedics Sports Medicine

Stress fractures of the foot and ankle are bone breaks that happen in the foot or ankle. These bones help support the rest of your body while you are standing, walking, running, or exercising and can take a lot of pressure. However, if they are put under too much pressure, they can fracture (break).

There are 3 different kinds of breaks:

• Compound fracture.  The broken bone is pushed through the skin. This is called an open fracture or compound fracture.
• Partial fracture. The fracture goes only part way through the bone.
• Stress fracture. Small cracks form in the bone dur to repeated pressure. A stress fracture is also known as a hairline fracture.

Stress fractures most commonly happen in the bones in the foot or the ankle. These include:

• Metatarsal fracture. The metatarsal bones are the long bones in your foot that connect your ankle to your toes. They help you balance when you stand and walk, and help support the weight of your body. You have five metatarsal bones in each foot.
• Talus fracture. The talus is a small bone that is between the heel bone and the tibia and fibula, the two bones in your lower leg.

Even though you might not notice a stress fracture right away, it is a serious medical condition that can cause permanent damage to your foot or ankle if not treated.

The symptoms of stress fractures of the foot and ankle can be similar to symptoms of dislocated joints or ankle sprains. However, you should still see a doctor for any of these conditions. Even if you don’t have a fracture, your doctor can prescribe treatment that will help you heal faster and with fewer long-term effects. Common symptoms of a foot fracture include:

• A foot bone that is out of place
• Swelling, bruising, or bleeding
• Intense pain around the injured part of your foot
• Numbness and tingling
• Difficulty moving your foot or toes
• Pain when you try to put weight on the foot

Usually, these symptoms will be worse near the bone that is broken, but you can also feel pain or other symptoms in nearby areas of the body, like the ankle, toes, or arch of the foot.
Stress fractures can happen over a long period of time, so you might not notice all these symptoms right away. Sometimes, these symptoms will start out minor and get worse over time, or they might go away and come back worse than they were before.

When to See a Doctor

If you think that you have a broken bone, you should get medical treatment right away. Keeping the bone still and weight off the injured foot or ankle can keep your injury safe while waiting for medical help. 

Find a Provider

There are many causes for stress fractures in the foot and ankle. Anything that puts too much stress on the bones in the feet can cause a fracture, even if that stress happens over a long period of time. Common causes include:

• Repetitive exercise that puts stress on your feet or ankles, like running
• Sports where you kick or jump frequently, like soccer or basketball
• Stress from impact sports like football and gymnastics

Sometimes, these causes can weaken your bone, which makes it easier to break in a situation where it normally would not.

Because hairline and stress fractures are small, your doctor might not be able to tell that you have a foot or ankle fracture just by looking at the part of your foot that is injured. Your doctor will most likely request an imaging test, like an x-ray (a test that passes beams of low-level radiation through your body) to take pictures of the injured area and find out whether you have a bone fracture. X-rays can also rule out a diagnosis of a dislocated joint, which is a common injury of the ankles. 

Treatments & Prevention

Treatments

If you think that you might have a foot or ankle fracture, you should see a doctor as soon as you can. Your doctor might treat your foot fracture in different ways depending on the kind of break you have and how serious it is. Some treatments include:

• Rest. Even if you don’t need surgery or reduction (setting a broken bone), you will probably need to stay off of the injured foot while it heals. Your doctor might use a cast or splint to keep the foot from moving during this period.
• Medicine. Anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen can help decrease pain, swelling, and inflammation around the foot or ankle fracture.

There are also some first aid steps you can take before you see a doctor to help keep your injured foot safe and reduce pain. The letters RICE can help you remember what to do:

• Rest. Stay off your foot until it can be looked at by a doctor. Don’t walk, run, or play sports, because this can make your injury worse.
• Ice. Put ice on the foot as soon as possible. You should use the ice on your foot for 15 to 20 minutes every 3 to 4 hours, especially for the first two days after you are injured. This can decrease inflammation and pain. Be sure to place a towel between your skin and the ice.
• Compression. Wrap a bandage around the foot or ankle. You should keep the bandage snug, but don’t wrap it too tight because this can cut off blood flow to the foot.
• Elevation. Put your foot on a couple of pillows to keep it above your heart and chest. This can help decrease swelling.

Prevention

Stress fractures in the foot and ankle are often caused by physical activity like running, sports, and other kinds of exercise. You can prevent fractures and other injuries to your foot by taking these steps:

• Warm up and stretch before you exercise.
• Wear the right shoes for the kind of exercise or sports you are doing.
• Replace athletic shoes every year, and replace running shoes every 300 to 400 miles.
• Don’t run or walk on uneven surfaces.
• Take breaks and don’t exercise too much.

Major types of leg fractures | Dr_Zasypka

Leg fractures are the most common injuries of the musculoskeletal system. Although bone injuries are rarely life-threatening, they are considered severe. Fracture healing and subsequent rehabilitation takes a long time. With improper treatment or its absence, serious complications and disability are possible.

Causes of fractures of the leg

Fractures of the lower extremities mean damage to the integrity and continuity of one or more bones. It occurs as a result of a strong mechanical impact, which many times exceeds the strength of bone tissue.

Traumatic fractures are caused by:

• Careless movement
• Falls
• Traffic accidents
• Industrial accidents
• Sports activities
• Criminal incidents
• Natural disasters.

Non-traumatic leg fractures occur against the background of bone tissue pathologies that have developed as a result of illness or old age. As a result, the bones lose their strength, become brittle and brittle.

Therefore, people with osteomyelitis, osteoporosis, hyperparathyroid osteodystrophy, bone tuberculosis, diabetes, metastasized tumors are especially prone to accidents. With these pathologies, bone fractures can occur spontaneously or as a result of the minimal load that healthy people endure without consequences. In very severe cases, when the bone tissue is severely damaged, a fracture can provoke any unsuccessful movement, coughing or sneezing.

Birth trauma is one of the causes of leg injuries. It happens not only due to a medical error, but also due to incorrect presentation of the fetus and intrauterine developmental pathologies.

Characteristics of the main types of leg fractures

There is no single clear classification. When making a diagnosis, doctors are guided by the type, shape and localization of the leg injury.

Bone injuries are either closed or open. In the first case, the skin over the site of the lesion remains intact, in the second, wound surfaces are formed due to the release of fragments. Recent injuries are the most dangerous, as they are accompanied by profuse blood loss and a high risk of infection. Emergency surgery is needed.

Distinguish between intra- and peri-articular fractures. They also happen:

• Incomplete. Manifested as breaks or thin cracks
• Complete (the bone is completely broken)
• Multiple.

The nature of fractures is affected by the position of the body at the time of injury and the direction of the mechanical impact. Depending on this, fractures are distinguished:

• Transverse: damage across the bone
• Longitudinal: fracture along the bone
• Oblique: the fracture is at an angle to the bone
• Helical: characterized by a spiral shape
• Impacted: parts of the bones are pressed into each other several or multiple fragments
• Crushed: bone injury with many small fragments
• Compression
• Avulsion: separation of small fragments from the bone
• Polyfocal: separation of two or more large pieces of bone.

Hip fractures

Hip fractures are considered the most severe form of injury. Accompanied by severe blood loss and severe pain. Requires long and serious treatment. In the absence of adequate therapy, severe complications are possible: bedsores, congestive pneumonia, disability, life-threatening conditions.

Fractures mostly affect older people, mostly women. In them, injuries are fixed 2-3 times more often than in men. This is explained by a higher rate of bone tissue destruction, leading to bone fragility and fragility. The most common causes of injury are falls, and in people with severe bone pathologies, fractures occur even after an unsuccessful movement, sneezing or coughing.

Hip injuries include fractures of the neck or body of the femur.

The intensity of the pain syndrome depends on the localization of the injury: in case of damage to the femoral neck, it manifests itself moderately, in case of a hip injury – strongly and sharply. Displaced fractures show shortening of the leg and slight swelling.

Any type of hip joint injury causes swelling, internal bleeding, and dysfunction. A particular danger of such injuries is damage to blood vessels, which provokes intense blood loss.

However, modern medicine has accumulated a lot of experience in the treatment of such pathologies. With timely and proper treatment, the prognosis is usually positive.

Fractures of the patella

Damage to the knee joint occurs in a small number of victims (2%). You can judge a fracture by a greatly increased size of the knee, swelling, severe and sharp pain. Often there is internal bleeding and accumulation of blood in the kneecap. The patient needs help moving around.

As with other leg injuries, treatment and recovery take a long time.

Fractures of the bones of the tibia

The tibia is the part of the leg between the thigh and the foot. It consists of two tubular bones (tibia and fibula), connected from above by a common joint, below – by ligaments, in the middle – by an interosseous membrane.

Fractures of the lower leg occur in 30 cases out of 100. Damage occurs in any part of the bones, but most often occurs in the middle section.

Fracture can be isolated or combined. In the first case, one of the bones is damaged, in the second – both. The cause is a direct or indirect effect.

Injury causes severe, acute pain syndrome, swelling, partial loss of stability. If the fracture occurred with a displacement, then the deformation of the lower leg is observed. Bone fragments are difficult to reduce, after operations they are often displaced again.

Ankle fracture

The lower parts of the fibula and tibia have protrusions (or anklebones) that encircle the ankle joint and keep it in a stable position. Fracture of this section of the bone is a common occurrence. It accounts for 60% of lower extremity injuries.

Fractures are most common in women. They arise as a result of tucking the foot, unsuccessful movement in heels, walking on a slippery surface. Injuries to the leg after a direct blow to the joint area are much less common.

Depending on the nature of the injury, there are fractures with or without displacement. Subluxations and ruptures of ligaments are possible. The fracture causes acute pain, swelling of the soft tissues and the area of ​​the ankle joint, deformity, hemorrhage at the site of injury, and sensitivity disorder. The possibility of movement is severely limited or impossible.

Fractures of the foot

Injuries include fractures of the bones of the heel, tarsus, metatarsus and fingers.

Injuries usually occur when falling or jumping from a height, twisting the foot while running, after a heavy object falls on the foot. They are divided into extra- and intra-articular, with or without displacement. Fractures cause severe pain, swelling, bruising, and inability to support. Possible bruising and deformity.

The lower extremities are constantly exposed to high stress and therefore their injuries are the most common. They can be mild (in the form of bruises, bruises, skin lesions), more complex (dislocations, ruptures of muscles and tendons). Leg fractures are complex injuries, many of which are repaired by surgery and prolonged immobilization.

Osteoporosis symptoms and treatment in women. Signs and diagnosis of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis treatment in the Ilyinsky hospital.

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bone density is significantly reduced, they can deform, become brittle . As a result, people with osteoporosis have pronounced posture disorders, and fractures often occur. Bones can break even with minor trauma (falling from height, sneezing, coughing, lifting heavy objects) or even without traumatic impact.

In people with osteoporosis, the most common fractures are the vertebral bodies, femoral neck, humerus neck, and forearm bones. In these places, the bone consists mainly of spongy tissue, which is the first to lose its density in osteoporosis.

Hip fractures are the most dangerous. Suspicion of a hip fracture in an elderly person is an absolute indication for hospitalization and surgical treatment within 48 hours. The most effective treatment will be carried out in a clinic where a multidisciplinary team of doctors (traumatologists, therapists, endocrinologists, cardiologists, nephrologists, rehabilitologists) works and ensures the continuity of treatment.

History

The brittle bone disease has been known for a long time. In the bones of Egyptian mummies, changes characteristic of osteoporosis were found. For example, the famous ruler of antiquity, Tutankhamun, allegedly died as a result of an open fracture of the leg due to osteoporosis. Osteoporotic bone changes have been found in the burials of North American Indians (2500–2000 BC). Typical changes in posture due to osteoporosis can be seen in the drawings found during excavations in Greece and China. However, the first description of changes in bone tissue characteristic of this disease was made by Charcot and Vulpian in 1873, and only in 1926, osteoporosis was described in one of the European textbooks on medicine.

Statistics

Osteoporosis is recognized as a socially significant disease, since its consequences – fractures – often cause disability, entail significant health care costs, and lead to an increase in mortality.

According to the Russian Association for Osteoporosis (RAOP):

• Osteoporosis in Russia takes the 4th place in terms of prevalence, immediately after diseases of the cardiovascular system, oncology and diabetes mellitus.

• A woman aged aged 50 years and older is at risk of a fracture greater than her total risk of breast, uterine, and ovarian cancer.

• Currently, about 10% of the population of the Russian Federation suffer from osteoporosis .

• 17 osteoporotic fractures of extremities occur every minute in Russia.

• After compression fractures of the spine, mortality in the first year after injury reaches 45% . The remaining patients in 33% of cases remain bedridden patients.

Factors contributing to the development of osteoporosis

• Gender: 80% of patients with osteoporosis are postmenopausal women.
• Lifestyle: unhealthy diet (excess dietary salt, vitamin D deficiency, low calcium intake, excess vitamin A), sedentary lifestyle, alcohol abuse, marked underweight, sudden weight loss.
• Endocrine disorders: diabetes mellitus, elevated thyroid and parathyroid hormones, premature menopause, athletic amenorrhea, long-term elevated prolactin levels, etc. , gastric bypass, etc.
• Eating disorders: anorexia or bulimia.
• Genetic diseases: cystic fibrosis, hemochromatosis, etc.
• Prolonged bed rest.
• Severe renal dysfunction.
• AIDS/HIV infection.
• Blood diseases: hemophilia, leukemia and lymphomas, multiple myeloma, etc.
• Rheumatological and autoimmune diseases.
• Neurological diseases: stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease.
• Long-term use of certain drugs: corticosteroids, anticancer drugs, heparin, drugs containing aluminum, etc. Important! It is not worth refusing to take these drugs on your own – it is important to consult with your doctor.

Diagnosis of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is called the “silent killer” because it has no specific symptoms. Often the disease is diagnosed only when the fracture has already occurred.

Densitometry is used to detect osteoporosis and osteopenia, a condition preceding osteoporosis. It is a painless and safe method for determining bone density. To determine the optimal treatment regimen, a number of additional studies are carried out.

Symptoms of osteoporotic vertebral fractures

For people over 50 years old, it is important to know about the most noticeable manifestations of vertebral fractures in order to see a doctor in a timely manner.

• Back pain, which often has an acute onset, is usually associated with exercise and is relieved by lying down.

• Loss of 6 cm in height over a lifetime or more than 2 cm in a year; a decrease in height of more than 0.5 cm annually is a risk factor for new fractures.

• Violation of posture. The most common is an increase in thoracic kyphosis, the formation of a “hump”.

• Reducing the gap between the ribs and the ilium (pelvis).

• Increasing the distance from the wall to the back of the head when standing with your back to the wall (due to thoracic kyphosis).

Treatment of osteoporosis

The main goal of treating osteoporosis is to reduce the risk of fractures. Treatment is most effective with the complex use of drug and non-drug methods.

Modern pharmacological preparations for the treatment of osteoporosis can be conditionally divided into suppressing the destruction of bone tissue and increasing bone formation. Drug treatment usually includes the use of calcium supplements and vitamin D. Continuous treatment of osteoporosis is carried out for 3 years or more. In certain situations, the doctor may stop treatment and then resume therapy.

Patients with osteoporosis have a very serious problem – low compliance (patient adherence to treatment). This is understandable: the patient is often not bothered by anything, taking medications does not significantly change the overall well-being. Studies show that 3 to 6 months after starting therapy, most people stop taking medications or take them irregularly, and fractures are more common in these people.

The purpose of non-drug treatment is to eliminate risk factors for osteoporosis (lack of physical activity, unbalanced diet, lack of calcium and vitamin D).

How to prevent the development of osteoporosis and its complications

Given the fact that bone mass reaches its peak around 20-25 years of age, and after 40-45 years it begins to decline, the prevention of osteoporosis should include the following activities:

• Maximum bone mass gain in children and young adults.
• Maintaining bone mass and preventing falls in healthy older people.
• Prevention of falls and fractures in patients diagnosed with osteoporosis.

Proper nutrition

It is important to get the necessary amount of calcium, other trace elements and vitamin D throughout life. For example, in women during pregnancy and lactation, the need for vitamins and minerals increases. An unbalanced diet during these important periods can lead to significant bone loss.

Elderly people should receive more calcium than other age groups. The norm for them is 1500 mg per day, and the maximum allowable amount of calcium is 2500 mg per day.

Vitamin D helps calcium to be absorbed in the intestines and penetrate into the bones. Getting this vitamin in the required amount from food is difficult due to the limited number of foods that contain it in significant amounts. The main source of vitamin D in the body is its synthesis in the skin under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. The process of such synthesis occurs actively at a young age, and in people after 40-45 years it decreases. The problem of vitamin D deficiency is especially relevant for residents of megacities who spend a lot of time indoors. It is important to remember that the need to prescribe various forms of vitamin D, dose, duration of administration is determined by the doctor individually for each person, taking into account many factors.

Avoid bad habits

Smoking impairs the absorption of calcium from food. Smokers continue to lose bone mass even with the use of calcium and vitamin D supplements. Smokers of any age have 1.5-2 times lower bone density.

Alcohol abuse leads to a decrease in bone density and negatively affects muscle strength, even in young people. And alcohol intoxication can increase the frequency of falls, as a result of which the risk of fractures increases significantly.

Maintain a balanced physical activity throughout your life

Prolonged bed rest leads to the development of osteoporosis even in healthy people. Bone density in physically active people is 30% higher than in inactive people.

For a better set of bone mass and bone quality in young people, the most optimal physical exercises that are performed on the legs (walking, running, tennis, dancing, exercising on simulators). However, in postmenopausal women, these types of physical activity are not always effective in increasing bone mass. For all elderly patients diagnosed with osteoporosis or with fractures that have already taken place, balance training is optimal, which helps to improve coordination and, accordingly, reduce the risk of falls (Pilates, tai chi, swimming, etc.).

In old age, it is important to remember the risk factors for falls

It is necessary to correct the decrease in visual acuity, reduce the consumption of drugs that reduce concentration and negatively affect balance, increase the safety of the home environment (eliminate slippery floors, obstacles, insufficient lighting , uncomfortable/missing handrails). Learn more about risk factors and prevention of falls.

Treatment of osteoporosis in the Ilinskaya hospital

The Ilyinsk Hospital has every opportunity to provide timely medical care at any stage of diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of patients with osteoporosis and its complications. Our clinic employs a multidisciplinary team of highly qualified specialists (endocrinologists, traumatologists, therapists, cardiologists, neurologists, ophthalmologists, rehabilitation specialists).