When fractures occur in children or at a young age, the bone generally gets healed within a few weeks or months, and the best part here is that they return back to their normal lives after complete recovery. But when we talk about fractures in the elderly, the case is different as the person might not be able to completely use the fractured limb or joint. Besides this, it might also take a longer time for the fracture to heal in the elderly, and still after recovery, support might be required. Above all, when orthopedic trauma implants are used for the treatment of fractures, a much longer time will be taken by the body to heal the broken bone. To get true quality implants, find reliable and experienced orthopedic products manufacturers.

How Fractures Are Like in Old Age?

One of the words that can define fractures in old age the best is “serious.” Yes, most of the broken bone cases in the elderly are serious. Age is the main factor for that. As we grow old, the functioning of our body starts becoming dull and so does the strength of bones & muscles. Apart from this, the body’s ability to absorb minerals also reduces. So, when a fracture occurs in the elderly, the chances are high that it will be a displaced and severe one.

Bones in aged people are weak and hence, they could get fractured easily. Even a slight disbalance or awkward movement while walking could result in the ankle, foot, or knee fractures. In some cases, fractures in the elderly are fatal as they could even take their lives. We can also say that fractures in the elderly could be life-changing.

The worst part of fractures in the elderly is delayed and partial healing. That is the key reason why fractures are considered the worst in old age.

What Causes Fractures in Old Age?

The most common cause of fractures in people above 65 years of age is falling. This is also the key reason for trauma in senior citizens that could also result in hospitalization. The percentage of people above 65 getting fractures due to falls is very high and that is the reason why we have stated this as the most common cause.

Due to weaker bodies, the elderly are more susceptible to falls while walking and especially bathing. Thus, you never know when a fracture could occur. The most common locations where a fracture could occur due to falling in the elderly include:

  • Hips
  • Thigh
  • Pelvis
  • Humerus
  • Vertebrae
  • Leg
  • Ankle

Another common cause of broken bones in the elderly is osteoporosis. Also known as porous bone disease, this condition rapidly reduces bone density thus, making people highly prone to getting fractures. Osteoporosis is common in senior citizens and hence, they could get fractures anytime and anywhere.

Can Fractures in the Elderly be Prevented?

Nothing could completely prevent fractures in the elderly but yes, the chances can be minimized by closely paying attention to smaller things. The chances of fractures without any reason are high in the elderly with osteoporosis. Certain activities that could minimize the chances of broken bones include:

  • Regular exercising to strengthen muscles and bones
  • A complete diet that is rich in calcium, vitamin D, vitamin K, zinc, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids
  • Restricted physical activities like lifting heavy objects and engaging in high-impact activities
  • Walking cautiously with extra care while using the bathroom
  • Doing aerobics could be helpful too

These are the simple yet highly effective ways to reduce the chances of fractures in old age and considering this could be more beneficial.

Siora Surgicals Pvt. Ltd. is an advanced and reliable manufacturer of international standard quality trauma implants that are used worldwide for the treatment of different orthopedic conditions. Siora is an ISO 13485:2016 and CE-certified company with numerous clients based across the world. The company has a strong global presence and that is why it is also known as one of the best Orthopaedic Companies in France.