Fragility Fractures

Fragility fractures are fractures that occur from low-impact events, such as a fall from standing height or less. They are often a sign of underlying bone weakness and commonly associated with conditions such as osteoporosis or other metabolic bone disorders. Fragility fractures can significantly affect mobility, independence, and quality of life.

Recognizing fragility fractures as a marker of bone health is important for preventing future fractures and complications.

What Are Fragility Fractures?

Fragility fractures are breaks in the bone that occur with minimal trauma, indicating reduced bone strength. Common sites include the spine, hip, wrist, and shoulder.

Unlike fractures caused by high-impact injuries, fragility fractures suggest an underlying problem with bone density or bone quality that requires further evaluation.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the fracture location but may include:

• Sudden pain following a minor fall or injury
• Difficulty bearing weight or using the affected limb
• Back pain related to vertebral compression fractures
• Loss of height or changes in posture
• Reduced mobility or function

Some vertebral fractures may cause minimal pain but still impact spinal alignment.

What Causes Fragility Fractures?

Fragility fractures most often result from weakened bones. Contributing factors may include:

• Osteoporosis or osteopenia
• Metabolic bone disease
• Aging-related bone loss
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Certain medical conditions or medications

Addressing these factors is essential to reduce future fracture risk.

How Are Fragility Fractures Diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves evaluation of both the fracture and underlying bone health, which may include:

• Imaging studies to confirm fracture location and severity
• Bone density testing
• Laboratory testing to assess metabolic contributors
• Review of medical history and fracture risk factors

This comprehensive approach helps guide both acute and preventive care.

Treatment Options for Fragility Fractures

Treatment focuses on fracture healing and prevention of future fractures. Options may include:

• Pain management and supportive care
• Rehabilitation to restore mobility and function
• Medications to strengthen bone and reduce fracture risk
• Advanced therapies for individuals at high risk
• Infusion-based treatments when clinically indicated

Long-term management aims to address the underlying bone disorder.

When to See a Rheumatologist

A rheumatology evaluation may be appropriate if you experience:

• A fracture from minimal trauma
• Multiple fractures over time
• Low bone density or known bone disease
• Concerns about fracture prevention

Specialized care helps reduce the risk of future fractures.

Our Approach to Treating Fragility Fractures

Our approach emphasizes comprehensive evaluation of bone health and individualized treatment planning. We focus on fracture prevention, long-term bone strength, and coordinated care to support recovery and mobility.

For patients who may benefit from advanced or infusion-based therapies, these options are offered as part of a structured and monitored care plan.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have experienced a fragility fracture or are concerned about fracture risk, scheduling a consultation can help clarify your bone health status and explore strategies to reduce future risk.