Learn How to Protect Yourself Against Hip Fractures

Hip fractures are a dangerous part of getting old and generally only half the people who have corrective surgery can walk normally after afterwards with both men and women over age 65 at the greatest risk of hip fracture. An interesting statistic is that the risk of women is almost double that of the men with one out of every six women over 65 breaking their hip (these happenings generally in Caucasian woman and very few black women break their hips). The tips discussed here though are applicable to all people.

1. Stop smoking - people who smoke have doubled the risk of a hip fracture when compared to people was never smoked or have stopped smoking, this trend is seen in both males and females.

2. Exercise regularly - studies have shown that women who exercise regularly have asked 30% lower risk of hip fractures when compared to women who do not. Walking is an excellent exercise and increasing the walking distance further lowers your risk of hip fracture.

3. Reduce your intake of caffeine- research shows that people who drink more than 2 cups of coffee per day have a higher risk of hip fracture than those who drink less or none at all.

4. Get the recommended amount of calcium per day - everyone over age 65 needs approximately 1500 mg of calcium per day this helps to strengthen the bones which case protects against hip fractures. It is widely known that persons who do not obtain the recommended amounts of calcium daily have a greater occurrence of bone fractures when compared to healthy persons.

5. Maintain the proper body mass index (BMI) - a healthy weight is very important in the protection of hip fractures, this is due to the proportions and distribution of weight on the bones, especially the hip bones. Any improper distribution creates additional stresses.

6. Check your medication -Some drugs such as Valium and anticonvulsant drugs that are used to control seizures may also affect bone density. It is recommended that you speak to your doctor about the risks associated with continuing to take these medications.

7. Invest in a hip guard - sufferers of osteoporosis, a condition where bones become more brittle than normal, have an even greater risk of fracture in their hip and as such may need to wear a hip guard. These can be ordered through your doctor or any medico supplies store.

8. Avoid alcohol - limit dairy research has shown that drinking large amounts of alcohol increases the risk of hip fractures in both men and women.

References
1. Eat and Heal. FC&A Medical Publishing
2. The Big Book of Health Tips. FC&A Medical Publishing