Risk Factors for Tibial Fractures: Are You at Risk?
Risk Factors for Tibial Fractures: Are You at Risk?
What's This About?
Understanding what increases your chances of a tibial fracture can help in taking preventive measures.
Contents
- High-Risk Activities
- Age and Bone Health
- Impact of Lifestyle
High-Risk Activities
Activities involving high energy impacts, like car accidents or skiing, are major risk factors for tibial fractures. Even low energy sports, such as soccer or running, can lead to fractures, especially in contact situations. Awareness of these risks can help in taking precautions.
Age and Bone Health
Older adults, particularly those with osteoporosis, are at higher risk of tibial fractures. This is due to decreased bone density, making the bones more susceptible to breaks from even minor falls. Maintaining bone health is crucial in reducing fracture risk.
Impact of Lifestyle
Long-term use of certain medications, like bisphosphonates, may also increase fracture risk. These medications, often used for osteoporosis, can sometimes weaken bones, leading to fractures without significant trauma.
FAQs
What activities increase fracture risk?
High energy impacts and contact sports are major risk factors.
Are older adults at higher risk?
Yes, especially if they have osteoporosis.
Can medications affect fracture risk?
Yes, long-term use of bisphosphonates can increase risk.
The Bottom Line
Identifying risk factors can help in taking steps to prevent tibial fractures.
Additional References
- Axibal DP, Mitchell JJ, Mayo MH, et al. Epidemiology of Anterior Tibial Spine Fractures in Young Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study of 122 Cases. J Pediatr Orthop 2019; 39:e87.
- Tang ZH, Kumar VP. Alendronate-associated ulnar and tibial fractures: a case report. J Orthop Surg (Hong Kong) 2011; 19:370.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.