What Factors Contribute to Falls-Related Distal Radius Fracture?

Objective

This mixed methods study analyzed the factors that led to a fall in a cohort of patients with distal radius fracture (DRF).

Methods

A sample of 1,453 patients (430 men; 1,023 women; age range: 18-89 years) supplemented by new interview data from 29 patients (19 women) were examined. Chi-square and descriptive analysis of quantitative data and descriptive thematic analysis of qualitative data were compared to determine data convergence and divergence.

Results

A higher number of DRF were observed in the 45- to 64-year-old group (44%), employed people (48%), in winter months (41%), and in low-energy fractures (75%). Themes emerged from qualitative data on the cause of the fracture, including environmental factors, behavioral factors, physical factors, and sports activities.

Conclusion

Reasons for DRF are multifactorial. Preventive strategies with an emphasis on environmental and behavioral factor modifications are likely to decrease the number of DRF.