Preventing falls if you have osteoporosis

Preventing falls is very important if you have osteoporosis, because your bones may break easily, and bones thinned by osteoporosis are slower to heal after they have broken. Not all falls can be prevented. However, there are some preventive measures you can take.

• Have your vision and hearing checked regularly. If you have poor vision and hearing, you may miss important cues that help you keep your balance.
• Exercise regularly-on most, preferably all, days of the week-to improve your strength, muscle tone, and sense of balance.
• Know the side effects of medications you are taking, and ask whether they can affect your sense of balance.
• Call your health professional for an appointment if you are dizzy and lose your balance. You may have a condition that needs treatment, such as an inner ear problem.
• Check the condition of your feet on a regular basis. Wear shoes that fit well and give your feet good support. Call your health professional if you think you have corns or calluses on your feet that need to be removed. Corns, calluses, and loose-fitting shoes can cause you to lose your balance and fall.
• Wear slippers and shoes with nonskid soles.
• If you take sleeping pills or sedatives, be careful so that you do not lose your balance.
• Make changes in your home to make it safer.
• Be sure to get enough vitamin D. One study showed that vitamin D may reduce an older person's risk of falling.¹

When going outdoors:

• Use a cane or a walker if needed.
• Walk on the grass when the sidewalks are slippery.
• If you live in an area that gets snow and ice in the winter, sprinkle salt or kitty litter on slippery steps and sidewalks.

Citations

1. Bischoff-Ferrari HA, et al. (2004). Effect of vitamin D on falls: A meta-analysis. JAMA, 291(16): 1999–2006.