If you or a loved one experience a broken hip or other broken bone due to osteoporosis, Blessing’s Break Free program aids recovery while focusing on ways to prevent future falls and fractures.

Experience the Blessing Difference: Bone Health

When you come to Blessing for osteoporosis care, you benefit from:

  • Commitment to excellence: We were the first hospital in Illinois to receive the highest level of certification for geriatric fracture care programs from the International Geriatric Fracture Society. Our Break Free program has premiere CORE Certification, which means we exceed benchmark standards for managing and treating broken bones caused by osteoporosis.
  • Fast surgical care: We get patients with broken hips or other broken bones into surgery in less than 24 hours from the time they arrive at our Emergency Center. This time is shorter than the national guidelines for surgical treatment of osteoporosis bone breaks. Our rapid surgical response benefits you by:
    • Addressing your pain more quickly
    • Lowering your risk of infection or other complications from the bone break
    • Improving your chances of a successful outcome
  • Caregiver support: A loved one should serve as your “coach” throughout the recovery process. Our team works with your coach to ensure he or she has the tools and resources needed to help you get the results you seek after surgery.
  • Bone density testing: A bone mineral density exam called a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) shows if osteoporosis is weakening your bones. These results help your doctor determine the best steps to protect your bone health. DXA testing takes place at Blessing’s Breast Center.
  • Advanced pain management: At Blessing, we take management of your pain seriously. We offer a variety of pain management options to make you comfortable while helping you return to normal activities as safely as possible.

Learn more about the Break Free program at Blessing.

Recovering from a Broken Hip or Other Fracture

Movement is key to a successful recovery after a major bone break, especially a broken hip. At Blessing, you start physical and occupational therapy sessions within 24 hours after surgery. Early movement reduces the risk of complications such as pneumonia, bed sores and muscle weakness that occur from staying in bed too long.

Depending on your health status and recovery progress, Blessing provides several options for pain management and orthopedic rehabilitation after hospital discharge.

Bone Health Experts at Blessing

The orthopedic specialists at Blessing partner with your primary care doctor to ensure that you receive the follow-up care needed for a successful recovery.

Blessing team members include:

  • A bone health expert who provides osteoporosis education, treatment and counseling.
  • A care manager who coordinates home health care if needed. Your care manager also arranges for home assist devices, such as a walker, elevated toilet seat or bathtub bench. Learn more about Blessing Home Care.
  • A palliative care team who helps you and your loved ones throughout the recovery process. We help manage pain and other symptoms, address emotional and spiritual needs, and coordinate care to improve your quality of life. Learn more about Blessing’s palliative care program.
  • Physical and occupational therapists who help you regain mobility, build stamina and show you how to safely perform daily activities, like getting dressed and taking care of personal hygiene, during recovery. These experts also suggest home and lifestyle changes to prevent falls, such as removing rugs and clutter at home.
  • Nutrition experts who can help you choose the best foods and supplements to improve bone health.

Osteoporosis Risk Factors

Your odds of osteoporosis increase when you are:

  • Age 50 or older
  • A woman who experienced menopause before age 45
  • Caucasian or Asian
  • Thin or have a petite body frame
  • Taking certain medications, such as steroids
  • Diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease or thyroid disease
  • Deficient in bone-building vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and vitamin D
  • A current or former smoker
  • A heavy drinker (3 or more alcoholic beverages a day)
  • Someone with a family history of osteoporosis or bone fractures
  • Sedentary

CONTACT US

To learn more or refer a patient, please call (217) 214-0444.