Bone and Joint Institute
What factors contribute to falls-related distal radius fracture?
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2019
Journal
Journal of Aging and Physical Activity
Volume
27
Issue
3
First Page
392
Last Page
397
URL with Digital Object Identifier
10.1123/japa.2017-0428
Abstract
© 2019 Human Kinetics, Inc. Objective: This mixed methods study analyzed the factors that led to a fall in a cohort of patients with distal radius fracture (DRF). Methods: A sample of 1,453 patients (430 men; 1,023 women; age range: 18–89 years) supplemented by new interview data from 29 patients (19 women) were examined. Chi-square and descriptive analysis of quantitative data and descriptive thematic analysis of qualitative data were compared to determine data convergence and divergence. Results: A higher number of DRF were observed in the 45- to 64-year-old group (44%), employed people (48%), in winter months (41%), and in low-energy fractures (75%). Themes emerged from qualitative data on the cause of the fracture, including environmental factors, behavioral factors, physical factors, and sports activities. Conclusion: Reasons for DRF are multifactorial. Preventive strategies with an emphasis on environmental and behavioral factor modifications are likely to decrease the number of DRF.
