Osteoporosis & Wrist Fractures
Osteoporosis is decreased bone density (“thinning of the bones”) that dramatically increases the risk of fracturing or “breaking” a bone. Osteoporosis is a common and serious problem, with more than 200 million people suffering from this dangerous condition.
According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, 1 in 3 women over the age of 50 years old and 1 in 5 men will experience a broken bone due to osteoporosis in their lifetime! This staggering statistic means that everybody should be aware of the risks of osteoporosis. But because it is a silent and often painless condition, many women and men are unaware that they are at risk
Causes of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis typically occurs as part of aging – but risk factors vary from person to person.
Some of the risk factors for osteoporosis are:
- age (over 50),
- heredity,
- being female,
- menopause
- hormone changes,
- lack of activity,
- smoking,
- alcohol,
- certain medications
Most Common Osteoporosis Fractures
The most common broken bones related to osteoporosis are: vertebra fractures, hips fractures, and wrist fractures. This is a serious problem because it is estimated that only one-third of patients incurring a hip fracture re-gain their functioning and about 20% of hip fracture victims will die within a year following the fracture.
Osteoporosis Related Broken Wrists
A wrist fractures is often the very first sign or indication of osteoporosis in a person. Approximately 250,000 osteoporosis-related wrist fractures occur every year in the United States.
Of every wrist fracture treated in the U.S. it is estimated that 34% of women and 17% of men had underlying osteoporosis which caused or contributed to their wrist fracture.
Sadly, incurring a wrist fracture results in an increase of 200% to 400% in the risk of a subsequent bone fracture compared with individuals who had no prior fracture.
Treating Wrist Fractures Due to Osteoporosis
When treating wrist fractures in patients with osteoporosis, hand specialist Dr. Uzma Rehman takes a comprehensive approach that considers both the immediate fracture management and the underlying bone weakness. The most common type of osteoporotic wrist fracture is a distal radius fracture, often called a Colles’ fracture. Treatment decisions are based on several factors, including the fracture pattern, the patient’s age and activity level, and the degree of osteoporosis present.
In many cases, these fractures can be treated with careful closed reduction and casting. However, due to the weakened bone quality in osteoporotic patients, surgical intervention may be necessary to prevent collapse of the fracture and ensure proper healing. When surgery is required, hand specialists like Dr. Rehman may use specialized techniques such as volar locking plates, which provide extra stability in fragile bone, or external fixation devices that hold the fracture in place without relying heavily on the bone’s internal strength.
Following either conservative or surgical treatment, proper rehabilitation is crucial for optimal recovery. Physical therapy at Macomb Hand Surgery typically begins as soon as the initial healing allows, usually around 4-6 weeks after injury or surgery. The early phase focuses on controlling swelling and maintaining mobility in the unaffected fingers to prevent stiffness. As healing progresses, physical therapists work on gradually restoring wrist range of motion through gentle passive and active exercises.
Our certified hand therapists may use techniques such as ultrasound, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercises to reduce pain and improve mobility. Strength training starts conservatively, acknowledging the limitations of osteoporotic bone, and gradually progresses to more challenging exercises as healing allows.
Occupational therapy also plays a vital role in helping patients return to their daily activities safely. Our certified occupational hand therapists work with patients to modify their environment and teach techniques that reduce the risk of future falls and fractures. This includes education on proper body mechanics, energy conservation techniques, and the use of adaptive equipment when necessary. They may recommend simple modifications to home and work environments, such as installing grab bars or reorganizing frequently used items to avoid awkward reaching. Additionally, our occupational therapists help patients learn ways to protect their wrists during daily activities, teaching joint protection principles that can help prevent future injuries.
Beyond the immediate treatment of the fracture, Dr. Rehman takes a holistic approach to preventing future fractures. This often involves coordinating with other healthcare providers to address the underlying osteoporosis through appropriate medication, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, and weight-bearing exercises when appropriate.
Patients are educated about lifestyle modifications that can help strengthen their bones and reduce the risk of future fractures. This comprehensive approach, combining expert fracture care with rehabilitation and prevention strategies, helps ensure the best possible outcomes for patients with osteoporotic wrist fractures.
Diagnosing Osteoporosis to Prevent Broken Wrists
Diagnosis of osteoporosis is best determined and quantified by a DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan. Dr. Rehman or your physician can tell you if you fit the criteria to receive a DEXA scan for osteoporosis.
Generally it is recommended that all women aged 65 and older, as well as post-menopausal women, less than 65, with certain risk factors for osteoporosis should receive DEXA screening.
Preventing Wrist Fractures Due to Osteoporosis
There are three categories of osteoporosis prevention that can help you avoid wrist fractures and other broken bones:
Osteoporosis lifestyle modifications
- regular exercise
- weight-bearing activities
- stop smoking
- decrease alcohol use
- balanced, calcium rich diet
- sunshine for Vitamin D production
Osteoporosis dietary supplements for patients over 50
- 1000-1500mg of calcium daily
- 800-1000iu of Vitamin D daily
Osteoporosis Medications
- hormone replacement (HRT, BHRT)
- alendronate (Fosamax)
- risedronate (Actonel)
- raloxifene (Evista)
- ibandronate (Boniva)
- calcitonin (Calcimar)
- zoledronate (Reclast)
- teriparatide (Forteo)
- denosumab (Prolia).
If you have suffered a wrist fracture it may be the first sign that you may have osteoporosis. And if have osteoporosis, but have not yet broken a bone, you are at much greater risk of fracture and subsequent immobility.
Remember that some broken bones do not show signs of pain or swelling – and can go misdiagnosed – worsening the condition. If you are a man or women over the age of 50 (or who has increased risk factors for osteoporosis) discuss DEXA screen with your primary care physician today.
And if you have any undiagnosed aches, pains, lumps, bumps or swelling in your hands, fingers, wrist or arm, it is important to see a specialized hand doctor like Dr. Rehman to diagnose and properly treat your condition – so that it does not worsen.
Wrist Fracture Due to Osteoporosis
If you are suffering from any injury, bumps, pain or restriction of movement in your fingers, wrist, elbow or arm, contact board certified hand surgeon Doctor Rehman for a comprehensive evaluation and consultation. As with most medical conditions, early detection, awareness, and a prevention or treatment plan is the most effective way to combat the effects of conditions like osteoporosis.
Doctor Rehman will assess your individual situation, and prescribe the treatments that are best for your condition.
