Book an appointmentHomeBlogAbout usDr. TeresitaPressEducation
ThyroidWeight managementMenopausePCOSGender dysphoriaHormonal health
Español

Services

Endocrinology
In-person appointmentVirtual appointment
DiabetesThyroidWeight managementMenopauseOsteoporosisPCOSGender-affirming careHormonal disordersPituitary careGrowth and development

Social media

Educational article

Osteoporosis Without a Major Injury: Signs of Fractures That Can Go Unnoticed

Endomédicos

Endomédicos medical profile

Published 5 min read

Educational content. It does not replace an individual medical assessment and should not be used for self-medication.

Leer este artículo en español
An adult with osteoporosis carefully bends to pick up a lightweight object from the floor at home.
Persistent discomfort during an everyday activity may be a reason to seek medical advice; on its own, it does not confirm a fracture.

Can a fracture happen without a significant fall?

Yes. A fragility fracture occurs when a weakened bone breaks after a force that would not normally cause a fracture. In people with osteoporosis, some fractures can occur without a clear accident or significant fall. This does not mean that every pain or discomfort is a fracture.

Myth: “If I didn’t fall, it can’t be a fracture”

Not having had a fall or a strong impact does not, by itself, rule out a fragility fracture. Some vertebral fractures cause nonspecific symptoms and can go unnoticed. If you live with osteoporosis and notice a persistent change, mention it to a healthcare professional rather than trying to determine the cause on your own.

Which changes are worth mentioning?

Mention localized pain that persists, a gradual decrease in height, or a change in posture that you have noticed. These may warrant an evaluation, but they do not prove that a fracture is present; there may also be other possible causes. You do not need to remember an injury to mention these changes.

How to prepare for a scheduled appointment

Write down when the pain began, where you feel it, how it has changed, and what activity you were doing when it appeared or worsened. Include any history of fractures or falls and recent changes in height or posture. Bring a list of your medications and information about your usual treatment. Do not change or stop a medication without speaking with your treating healthcare professional.

What might the healthcare professional evaluate?

The healthcare professional will review your symptoms and medical history and, depending on the situation, decide whether you need a physical examination or imaging studies. The evaluation depends on your individual circumstances; not all discomfort requires the same tests. A clear description of the changes may help guide the next steps.

When should you seek urgent care?

Seek urgent care if you develop sudden, severe pain, have significant limitation after a fall, or experience new weakness or numbness. If the pain persists without these signs, schedule an appointment. If you are unsure how urgent the situation is, contact a healthcare service.

Discomfort does not confirm a fracture

Persistent pain and changes in height or posture can have different explanations. A professional evaluation can determine whether further assessment is needed. If you have osteoporosis, reporting these changes may help determine the next steps.

When to seek medical care

If symptoms persist, test results are abnormal, or you have questions about medication, arrange an individual assessment. Do not change treatment or doses without medical guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Does gradual loss of height mean I have a vertebral fracture?

Not necessarily. It is a change worth mentioning, but it does not confirm a fracture. Consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have osteoporosis or also notice persistent pain.

What information should I bring to the appointment?

Write down when the pain began, what triggers it or makes it worse, and your history of falls or fractures. Mention gradual changes in height or posture and bring information about your medications.

Will I need imaging to find out whether there is a fracture?

It depends on your symptoms, medical history, and evaluation. The healthcare professional will decide whether you need a physical examination or imaging studies; pain or posture alone cannot determine this.

Does this topic resonate with you?

Every case is different. Book a consultation to review your history, test results and goals with a personalized plan.

Book an appointmentMeet Dr. Teresita CortésDiscover EndomédicosExplore related care
Explore endocrinology care for Osteoporosis

More articles about Osteoporosis