The Role of Fall Biomechanics in the Cause and Prevention of Bone Fractures in Older Adults.

In this review, we describe recent evidence on how the mechanics of falls in older adults influence the risk for fractures to the hip, wrist, vertebrae, and humerus. We discuss how fracture risk depends on fall height, fall direction, and landing configuration. We also review the benefits of exercise, wearable protective gear, and environmental modifications in preventing fractures in older adults. Our findings highlight promising new directions in fracture prevention, and the need for collaboration between the bone and falls research communities to implement proven strategies and generate new solutions.