Fall Severity and Bone Mineral Density as Risk Factors for Hip Fracture in Ambulatory Elderly

Abstract

We conclude that among elderly fallers--in most of whom hip BMD is already less than the fracture threshold--fall characteristics and body habitus are important risk factors for hip fracture and touch on a domain entirely missed by knowledge of BMD. These data suggest new targets for preventive therapy. In addition to the maintenance of bone density, reductions in fall severity (eg, by use of trochanteric padding or enhancement of muscle strength) may provide additional strategies for prevention of hip fracture in this age group.