Submitted By John Hur M.D.
12.01.2009

Are You At Risk For Hip Fractures?

When you think of serious health problems, a hip fracture may not be at the top of your list. But according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 353,000 people are hospitalized for hip fractures each year. A hip fracture is a serious injury, usually caused by a fall or a blow directly to the hip as well as weakened hip bones. The most common breaks occur in the upper quarter of the thigh bone, which result in pain over the outer upper thigh or in the groin. A hip fracture also can cause difficulty walking, inability to stand, leg weakness and/or discomfort to rotate the hip.

You should consider the following common risk factors when it comes to your hips:

• Heredity: Bone size, mass and density can all be attributed to family history and genes. If someone in your family has had a hip fracture, you may be more prone to fractures.

• Health: Hip fractures commonly occur in people with osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to weaken due to calcium deficiencies. Approximately 1.5 million fractures are related to osteoporosis each year. Taking sufficient calcium and vitamin D as early as possible will help offset this condition. This coupled with weight-bearing exercise and limited smoking and alcohol use will help keep your bones healthy.

• Age and gender: Most people who fracture their hips are older than 50. In fact, 90 percent of those who incur a hip fracture are 65 and older. Interestingly, women are two to three times more likely to have a hip fracture as men because menopause accelerates bone loss.

• Side effects of medications: Some prescription medications can increase your risk of osteoporosis or cause dizziness, intensifying your risk of a hip fracture. Talk to your doctor about the medications you are taking and how they may affect your balance and bone mass.

To reduce your risk of injury, exercise to improve strength and balance and take calcium supplements if needed.

Check with your physician before you make any long-term lifestyle changes and find out what your risk is for a hip fracture.