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Method and Instrumented Fixture for Femoral Fracture Testing in a Sideways Fall-on-the-Hip Position
Published on: August 17, 2017
Association between functional capacity tests and fractures: an eight-year prospective population-based cohort study
M Kärkkäinen1, T Rikkonen, H Kröger
1Bone and Cartilage Research Unit, University of Kuopio, P.O. Box 1627, Mediteknia Building, 70211 Kuopio, Finland. Matti.Karkkainen@uku.fi
Summary
Simple functional tests like standing on one foot and grip strength can identify postmenopausal women at high risk for fractures. These assessments, along with self-reported walking ability, are valuable for predicting fracture incidence.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Orthopedics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Poor functional status is linked to injurious falls and subsequent fractures.
- Understanding the association between functional capacity and fracture risk is crucial for prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between functional status and fracture risk in postmenopausal women.
- To identify simple tests for predicting fracture risk in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- The study utilized data from the Osteoporosis Risk Factor and Prevention Study (OSTPRE).
- 2,928 postmenopausal women underwent functional capacity and muscle strength tests.
- Fracture follow-up averaged 8.37 years, with Cox-regression analysis employed.
Main Results:
- Inability to stand on one foot for 10 seconds significantly increased hip fracture risk (HR 9.11).
- Decreased grip strength (HR 1.05) and low leg extension strength (HR 1.02) were associated with increased hip and all fracture risks, respectively.
- Limited self-assessed walking ability (<100m) elevated the risk for ankle, hip, and vertebral fractures.
Conclusions:
- Standing on one foot for less than 10 seconds is a strong predictor of hip fractures.
- Grip strength and self-reported walking distance are valuable indicators for predicting various fracture types in postmenopausal women.
- These simple functional assessments can aid in identifying individuals at high risk for fractures.
