My Doctor Says I Have a Fragility Fracture: What Happens Next?

In this episode of the OrthoInfo Podcast, host Julie E. Adams, MD, FAAOS, welcomes Lisa Cannada, MD, FAAOS, to unpack a diagnosis many patients find frightening: the fragility fracture. Dr. Cannada explains what sets these low-energy breaks apart from other types of fractures, where in the body they most often occur, and what they reveal about a patient's underlying bone health.

Listeners will learn how fragility fractures are treated, including the many factors that go into the decision about whether or not to perform surgery. But the conversation goes beyond treatment of the fracture itself, exploring how orthopaedic surgeons work as part of a larger care team to identify the root causes of fragility fractures and reduce the risk of a second one. Dr. Cannada also shares practical advice about building healthier bones at every age, from childhood habits to post-menopausal care, and offers a hopeful message: With the right education and follow-up, patients can protect their independence and stay active for years to come.

Key Topics Covered in this Episode:

• What defines a fragility fracture and how it differs from high-energy fractures

• Common fracture sites in the geriatric population, including the wrist, proximal humerus, hip, and spine

• Risk factors such as medications, smoking, alcohol use, poor diet, and home environment hazards

• Why one fragility fracture doubles the risk of a second and the broader consequences of repeat fractures on independence and longevity

• Shared decision-making in determining whether surgery is appropriate, including how bone and skin quality affect surgical planning and fixation choices

• Post-fracture workup to determine underlying bone health, including DEXA scans, lab testing, and nutritional assessment

• The team approach to care, involving primary care, endocrinology, and OB/GYN for osteoporosis treatment and risk factor reduction

• Prevention strategies across the lifespan, including weightbearing exercise and nutrition

Host: Julie E. Adams, MD, FAAOS, orthopaedic trauma and hand surgeon, Deputy Editor of OrthoInfo

Guest: Lisa Cannada, MD, FAAOS, orthopaedic trauma surgeon, Novant Health, Charlotte, NC; and Director of Faculty Integration, Medical Student Clerkship Director, and Professor, UNC School of Medicine (Charlotte Campus)

For more information about fragility fractures and answers to your orthopedic questions visit www.orthoinfo.org.