Physical activity and fall prevention - solving clinical problems

Abstract

Introduction. A multidisciplinary and therapeutic approach is used for patients with osteoporotic bone fractures. Falls, leading to injuries, including bone fractures, are a common occurrence in the elderly suffering from osteoporosis. Multifactorial risk assessment is of great importance in identifying risk factors for the occurrence of falls, their removal and implementing preventive measures. The issue of risk assessment is very current and treated by related professional recommendations and national and international guidelines. The latter point out the following fall risks: previous falls, use of psychotropic substances, vision impairment, mobility, gait, muscle strength and balance and impairment of cognitive functions. Fear of falling, psychological passivity, urinary incontinence, inadequate footwear and certain neurologic and cardiovascular conditions are also considered additional risks. Fall risks may also be environmental (within the dwelling and outside), such as low lighting, inadequate furniture and its disposition, difficulty in accessing the bed, chair, toilet, bathroom, stairs and other. For a realistic fall risk estimate, besides using adequate questionnaires, several static and dynamic tests may be used to assess balance and mobility. Depending on the type of risk factors present, actions for their removal through information, education and participation of the elderly in preventive measures are also recommended. Conclusion. Multifactorial risk assessment of fall occurrence and bone fracture, as of recovery, are of great importance within certain population groups, especially the elderly.