Statistics indicate that 90% of hip fractures are the result of osteoporosis. As our society ages, the phenomenon will have significant impact on our health care system.
Recently the GTA Rehab Network, an organization composed of publicly-funded hospitals and community based organizations in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), prepared and released best practice guidelines for medical professionals who care for individuals who have suffered a hip fracture.
Patient Care Guidelines for Hip Fracture
These guidelines cover the entire spectrum of care from acute to inpatient rehabilitation. I have posted them at the bottom of this article for you.
Those of you living outside the GTA or outside of Canada may find it interesting to review both documents. These guidelines may be helpful if you are currently creating or revising guidelines for your own work place.
They are very comprehensive and make for an excellent check list of care.
Osteoporosis Exercises and Treatment
Included within the guidelines are basic exercises. These exercises are provided by the Ontario Osteoporosis Strategy for Inpatient Rehabilitation. The contribution of the Ontario Osteoporosis group is a good start. Many of the exercises are at a pre-beginner level and are appropriate when you want to get a patient moving.
I hope you find them useful. Below are the links to the two downloadable files.
Clinical Care Guidelines for Hip Fracture – Acute Care
Clinical Care Guidelines for Hip Fracture – Inpatient Rehab
You can access and download both guideline documents at the GTA Rehab website.
Note: These links have been removed by the GTA website. Please contact them if you need the forms.
Health Professionals: Building Better Bones Online Course
Learn the Prevention, Treatment and Management of Osteoporosis.
MelioGuide Building Better Bone Online Course for Health Professionals
Women and Men: Exercise for Better Bones Program
Osteoporosis exercise program that strengthens bone, reduces fracture risk, improves balance and builds confidence.
MelioGuide Exercise for Better Bones Program for Women and Men
