Causes of Falls

Falls can cause broken or fractured bones which can lead to chronic pain and impair mobility. A person with osteoporosis and has a fall is more likely to break or fracture a bone because their bones are weak and brittle. Broken bones and fractures typically occur in the hip, wrist, pelvis, ribs or spine.

Falls can be caused by some medications which may cause:

• drowiness
• dizziness
• blurred or double vision
• confusions

Some medical conditions may also put you at higher risk of having a fall. These medical conditions include:

• low blood pressure
• stroke
• Parkinson's disease
• arthritis
• Meniere's disease (affects the middle ear - causes vertigo)
• Poorly controlled diabetes
• Poorly controlled epilepsy
• Brain disorders
• Thyroid problems

Other causes of falls are:

Physical Factors	Envoronmental Factors
• poor balance • muscle weakness • joint stiffness • limited neck movements • unsuitable footwear • poor vision • inactivity • dizziness	• loose mats or rugs • uneven paving and walkways • slippery surfaces (in the bath or shower) • no handrails on stairs • poor lighting

Falls often occur in the evening and at night due to poor light and tiredness.

Learn how to prevent falls using the SAFE BONES acronym.