It was once believed that carrying extra body weight would protect people from fractures by strengthening their bones, but new evidence is challenging that idea. According to orthopedic surgeons like Dr Rajesh Srinivas from Manipal Hospital Varthur Road and Dr Harekrushna Sahu from Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, recent studies show that obesity might actually increase the likelihood of certain types of fractures rather than prevent them.
In a conversation with HT Lifestyle, Dr Srinivas explained that while people long thought more body fat meant stronger bones, newer research indicates that abdominal or central obesity can actually lead to higher risks of fractures. Obesity is now known to contribute to spinal problems like degenerative spine disease and worsening osteoarthritis in joints like the knees and ankles.
Dr Sahu added that while excess weight around the waist might cushion some areas like the hip during a fall, it doesn’t protect other parts of the body, making people more prone to shoulder or ankle fractures. One reason is that obese individuals often struggle with posture and balance, increasing the chance of falls. Compounding this issue is that obesity can lead to low vitamin D levels, making bones weaker and more susceptible to damage.
Children and adolescents are not immune to these risks either. Dr Sahu pointed out that the rise in childhood obesity has caused an uptick in specific bone issues like slipped capital femoral epiphysis, a painful condition affecting the hip. Women, especially after menopause, face an even greater threat since hormonal changes weaken bones further, and carrying excess weight increases the stress on fragile bones, heightening the chances of hip, wrist, and spinal fractures.
Dr Srinivas stressed the importance of tackling obesity at its roots, whether it’s due to genetics, metabolic disorders, or poor lifestyle choices. He recommends that individuals maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet, calorie monitoring, and daily exercise, including strength training. According to the World Health Organization, brisk walking for 40 to 45 minutes a day can make a difference, along with mindful food habits.
When it comes to physical activity, Dr Srinivas advises obese patients to avoid high-impact workouts that can strain their spine and legs. Instead, they should focus on low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, or walking. For elderly patients who may be prone to falls, he suggests using assistive devices like canes or walkers and ensuring homes are equipped with non-slip features to reduce the risk of injury.
Rehabilitation for fractures can be especially challenging for obese patients due to weak bones, excess fat, and possible wound healing complications. Dr Sahu emphasized that preventing obesity through a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, vitamin D supplementation, and fall prevention strategies is key to minimizing fracture risk.
Both experts agree that understanding the real relationship between obesity and bone health can help people make better lifestyle choices. Prevention, awareness, and early intervention can save people from the pain and complications that come with fractures linked to being overweight.