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Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Elderly
Edward J Goetzl1, Brian Feeley2
1Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco.
The American Journal of Medicine
|April 14, 2025
Summary
Elderly individuals over 65 experience declining physical function, increasing fall risks and fragility fractures. Prevention involves addressing medication, home safety, diet, exercise, and osteoporosis treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Orthopedics
- Public Health
Background:
- Aging population (≥65 years) constitutes ~20% of the US population.
- Age-related decline in physiological functions and increased disease prevalence.
- Musculoskeletal disabilities, vestibular, and proprioceptive dysfunction contribute to falls in the elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the risks associated with aging, including falls and fractures.
- To emphasize the importance of identifying and correcting modifiable risk factors for fall prevention.
- To outline strategies for preventing fragility fractures in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Review of age-related physiological changes and common health issues.
- Identification of risk factors for falls and fractures.
- Discussion of preventive measures and treatment options.
Main Results:
- Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death and non-fatal injuries in individuals ≥65 years.
- Osteoporosis is prevalent in those >50 years, increasing fracture risk.
- Correctible defects (medications, alcohol, home hazards, vision, muscle strength) can be identified.
Conclusions:
- Fragility fracture prevention requires optimal diet, resistance exercise, and osteoporosis management.
- Orthopedic consultation is crucial for complex fractures and specific injury patterns.
- A multi-faceted approach is necessary to reduce fall-related injuries and fractures in the elderly.
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