Fracture Prevention
Bone Health
With spinal cord injury (SCI), there is a rapid decline in bone density, especially in the area of the hips, knees and ankles. In addition, people with an SCI also have a higher chance of sustaining a fracture to their lower limbs. Areas more vulnerable to fractures are:
1. The thigh bone just above the knee
2. The shinbone just below the knee
3. The middle of the thigh bone
Common causes of fractures include:
Rolling in bed
Transfers, e.g. getting into a car, moving to a sofa
Placing stress on the knees by turning your hips while feet are planted
Most fractures take three to six months to heal. This can lead to a loss of independence and/or may prevent you from working, driving, or participating in leisure activities. You may also develop a pressure sore from the cast.
Here are some tips for preventing fractures:
Have a routine neurological assessment to monitor any changes in your SCI
Routinely review your transfer technique with your health care provider and make sure they are aware of any changes in your mobility.
Practice falls prevention at home and remove any common household hazards, including slippery floors, stairs, floor obstacles and use night lights.
Be aware of the risks associated with some high risk and contact sports and wear appropriate protective equipment.
Wear your seat belt when using a power chair.
Even if you are taking great care of yourself and following the fracture prevention tips, accidents do happen and can result in a fracture. So how do you know if your bone is broken?
Common signs and symptoms of a fracture include:
Swelling and/or recurrent swelling
Sweating
Increased spasticity (stiff, rigid muscles with exaggerated, deep tendon reflexes)
Fever
Loss of appetite
If you think you may have a fracture or if there has been trauma where force or heavy pressure occurred to your lower limbs, seek medical help at the nearest hospital.
To learn more about healthy bones Your Bone Health, contains more tips on preventing and dealing with fractures.