Purpose

To conduct a review of the current state of the evidence for rehabilitation strategies post-fragility fracture.

Methods

Narrative review conducted by the Rehabilitation Working Group of the International Osteoporosis Foundation Committee of Scientific Advisors characterizing the range of rehabilitation modalities instrumental for the management of fragility fractures.

Results

Multi-modal exercise post-fragility fracture to the spine and hip is strongly recommended to reduce pain, improve physical function, and improve quality of life. Outpatient physiotherapy post-hip fracture has a stronger evidence base than outpatient physiotherapy post-vertebral fracture. Appropriate nutritional care after fragility fracture provides a large range of improvement in morbidity and mortality. Education increases understanding of osteoporosis which in turn increases utilization of other rehabilitation services. Education may improve other health outcomes such as pain and increase a patient's ability for self-advocacy.

Conclusion

Rehabilitation interventions are inter-reliant, and research investigating the interaction of exercise, nutrition, and other multi-modal therapies may increase the relevance of rehabilitation research to clinical care.