Other Fractures

How common are other fractures at other sites besides the hip, spine or wrist?

In the United States, each year there are about 135,000 pelvic fractures and about 675,000 fractures at other sites. In addition to the hip, spine, wrist, and pelvis, other common sites for broken bones include the rib, ankle, foot, and arm.

What can cause a fracture?

Most fractures that occur in adulthood with minimal trauma, such as after a fall from standing height, are often a consequence of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a silent disease without symptoms. A fracture is warning sign that an individual may have low bone mass or osteoporosis.

What other broken bones (besides the hip, spine, or wrist) can happen as a result of osteoporosis?

Most broken bones in older men and women are due at least in part to having low bone mass, even when bones break as a result of significant trauma. You can break a bone in any part of your body as a result of osteoporosis with the exception of the fingers, toes, face, and skull.

If I break a bone, how do I know if I have osteoporosis?

If you have had a fracture and have not yet had a BMD (bone mineral density) test, speak to your healthcare provider about having this simple, noninvasive test. A BMD test can diagnose low bone mass or osteoporosis. Low bone mass is the single most important risk factor for fracture. A BMD test can be used by your healthcare provider to help predict your chances for fracturing in the future and to help monitor your response to treatment.

If I am diagnosed with osteoporosis, is there treatment to prevent another fracture?

If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, you may be more likely to break a bone. It is important to speak to your healthcare provider to determine if it is necessary to take an FDA-approved osteoporosis medication. If an osteoporosis medication is prescribed, it is important to take it as directed in order to reduce your risk for bone loss and fracture. In addition, it is always important to follow the steps to promote stronger bones.

Steps to stronger bones:









Strong bones are a lifetime commitment. It is never too early or too late to take the steps to promote stronger bones.