Research Reveals Way For Men To Reduce Hip Fracture
Hip fracture injuries can lead to significant medical expenses and a sharp decline in quality of life. New research reveals a powerful step men can take now to reduce fracture risk later.
As we age, many of us suffer from osteoporosis, or low bone mass. Our bone health becomes more fragile, and we are at greater risk of hip fractures.
Hip fractures may be caused by a “minimal trauma” such as falling from a standing height, but the consequences of these injuries are far from minimal. Once we are over the age of 50, one of every two women and one of every four men will suffer a fracture related to osteoporosis. These fractures are a serious and costly public health problem and can have a devastating effect on quality of life. Fragility fractures are the primary cause of hospitalization and death among adults 65 years of age and older.
In April 2014, the American Journal of Public Health published a study of hip fracture risks in men related to their physical activity. Study results offer promising news for men interested in proactively decreasing their risk of hip fracture later in life.
The study followed nearly 36,000 men over a 24-year period, and found that brisk walking substantially reduced hip fracture risks. Men who walked four or more hours every week at a brisk pace had a 62 percent lower risk of hip fracture than men who did not get in at least four hours a week. The amount of time spent walking matters. Even when men walked for at least four hours at a slower pace, they lowered their fracture risk by 43 percent.
It’s never too late to begin a preventative investment in your health. Today is a great day to block out four hours in your week, lace up your walking shoes, and start walking your way to a healthier future.
When to seek treatment for your arthritis
Arthritis doesn’t have to spell the end of an active life. If you are experiencing worrisome symptoms or persistent pain, the renowned arthritis specialists at Summit Orthopedics can help. We work with you to confirm a diagnosis and develop an appropriate conservative treatment plan. If nonsurgical treatments fail to support your lifestyle goals, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons will consult with you and discuss appropriate surgical options. Summit is home to innovative joint replacement options. Our Vadnais Heights Surgery Center is one of only two surgery centers nationally to receive The Joint Commission’s Advanced Certification for Total Hip and Total Knee Replacement.
Start your journey to healthier joints. Find your arthritis expert, request an appointment online, or call us at (651) 968–5201 to schedule a consultation.
Summit has convenient locations across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. We have state-of-the-art centers for comprehensive orthopedic care in Eagan, MN, Plymouth, MN, Vadnais Heights, MN, and Woodbury, MN, as well as additional community clinics throughout the metro and southern Minnesota.
More resources for you
- Ask Dr. Wickum: How long does a hip replacement last?
- Osteoporosis Puts Men At Risk For Hip Fracture
- Ask Dr. Hansen: Do I Have Hip Replacement Symptoms?
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Daren Wickum, M.D.
“Quality of life really boils down to remaining active. Keeping patients mobile keeps me on my toes. So does keeping up with my son.”
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Jack Drogt, M.D.
“As a hip and knee specialist, an orthopedic surgeon, and the President of Summit Orthopedics, I’m dedicated to providing patients with the highest level of care available. Our expertise extends beyond orthopedic care. We’re enabling people to live the lives they love.”
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Jack Skendzel, M.D.
“An active lifestyle requires superior physical function, and I understand that my patients have exceptionally high standards for their performance and joint health. My goal is to return patients to optimal function so that they can continue to perform and master their personal athletic goals.”
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Jerome Perra, M.D.
“My goal is always to return the patient to his or her highest level of function, and to individualize post-operative
and rehabilitation expectations.” -
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Kristoffer Breien, M.D.
“I tend to be more conservative in my approach, reserving surgery as a last option. In essence, I strive to care for patients and their problems in the same manner my family and I expect to be treated when we seek medical attention.”
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Peter Daly, M.D.
“I understand the concern of athletes to get back to their sport. And I work in combination with our therapists to get them fully active.”
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