After an Osteoporosis Hip Fracture: Recovering at the Hospital

In general, the healthier one was before the hip fracture, the better the prognosis. But your time in the hospital can provide an important opportunity to address conditions that may worsen with immobility or could even have contributed to a fall that led to the fracture in the first place. If one has uncontrolled high blood pressure or diabetes, for example, consult with your doctor about an appropriate treatment plan. Getting a handle on these issues can aid in your recovery and may prevent another injury.

It may also be appropriate to discuss with your physician whether you need to take further action regarding your low bone mass. A recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine indicated a yearly infusion of zoledronic acid - known as Reclast - beginning within three months of a hip fracture lowered the risk of recurrence. If you were previously taking bisphosphonate medication, your doctor may explore switching to another kind of drug, such as Forteo, a synthetic parathyroid hormone. Whatever regimen you and your doctor settle on, it is essential that you endeavor to comply and report immediately any adverse effects.

Studies have also shown that individuals with proper nourishment do better after a hip fracture than those lacking in crucial nutrients, so do talk with your physician about the type of well-rounded diet that would be best for you. Of particular importance for healthy bones are proper amounts of calcium and Vitamin D - the National Osteoporosis Foundation now recommends 1200 mg calcium and 800-1000 IU Vitamin D daily for adults over 50. In addition, a recent study published in the European Journal of Epidemiology singled out the importance of Vitamin K in terms of preventing a hip fracture, even when intake of other nutrients was considered.

With proper medical care and dedication to recovery, an osteoporosis hip fracture is a challenge that can be surmounted.