The impact of physical changes to appearance on people with vertebral fragility fracture: a qualitative study.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of people with Vertebral Fragility Fracture (VFF) due to osteoporosis and the impact of the physical changes resulting from their condition.

DESIGN

Interpretive qualitative research using semi-structured individual interviews

PARTICIPANTS

Eighteen people with VFF were interviewed; nine men and nine women. Participants ranged in age from 55 to 92 years and had between 1 and 10 previous vertebral fragility fractures.

SETTING

Interviews were offered in participants own homes, at the hospital or by Microsoft TEAMS or telephone. These were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed through reflexive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Results are presented within four themes: loss of height; finding spinal curvature upsetting, the impact on looking good and whether having a stoop was inevitable or could be prevented by active engagement.

CONCLUSION

The findings show the negative impact on self-image caused by the physical manifestations of a VFF and that these can be as significant and distressing as pain and functional limitations. This information is useful for physiotherapists treating people with vertebral fragility fractures offering insight into the patients' experiences of these physical changes. CONTRIBUTION OF THE PAPER.