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Osteoporosis fractures quiz: True or false?

Have you broken a bone because of osteoporosis? There are things you can do to help your recovery and reduce your chances of breaking another bone.

To find out what some of those things are, talk to your doctor—and take this quiz.

FALSE. It's never too late to protect your bones from osteoporosis. If you haven't already done so, be sure to get an osteoporosis evaluation from your doctor. Find out what you should do to manage the disease. Your doctor may suggest a variety of treatments, such as lifestyle changes and medications, to protect against further bone loss.

True or false: Exercise may help you avoid breaking another bone.

TRUE. It may be tempting to avoid physical activity after you've experienced a fracture. But exercising reduces your risk of another fracture by helping your bones stay as dense as possible and by helping you stay fit and less likely to fall. Good exercises for bones include weight-bearing activities (like walking), strength training, and stretching and balance workouts (like tai chi). Your doctor can recommend safe exercises as well as activities to avoid. For instance, you shouldn't try impact sports (like jogging) or twisting and bending motions (like swinging a golf club or doing sit-ups).

True or false: You'll know if you break a bone.

FALSE. Fractures are often obvious, but vertebral fractures in particular can sometimes happen without causing pain. You might only learn about a vertebral fracture if you have a chest or back x-ray done for another reason.

However, any fracture should be taken seriously and treated, regardless of whether it causes pain.

True or false: Learning safer ways to perform daily tasks is important after a fracture.

TRUE. You may need to modify how you do some of your routine tasks even after your fracture has healed. For example, if you have broken a vertebra, you should be careful not to lift heavy objects, like large and full bags of groceries. Try carrying smaller bags and making several trips. Your doctor may want you to see a physical or occupational therapist to learn safer ways to do things at home and work.

True or false: Avoiding falling is one of the best ways to avoid another broken bone.

TRUE. Wearing shoes with low heels and non-skid soles and using handrails when climbing stairs can help you avoid falling. Other fall prevention tips include keeping floors clear of clutter and installing rubber bathmats and brighter light bulbs. It's also a good idea to have your vision checked regularly, as poor eyesight can cause a fall. Ask your doctor if any of the medications you're taking could make you likely to fall.

Balance exercises are another way to help prevent falls. Explore these five balance exercises and ask your doctor if they could help you.

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