Visual impairment and falls as risk factors of orthopaedic fractures

Abstract

The musculoskeletal system represents one of the most affected systems in general traumatology. Fractures of the locomotor system and their effects are among the most severe and demanding injuries for the community in general and for the health system in particular. There are different factors that have been established as risk factors for fractures, with falls representing the main cause. Given the fact that vision has a key role in preserving gait and balance, various conditions of visual impairments have been related to an increase in fall-related injuries, and fractures of the locomotor system, especially in older population. Indeed, with an increased life expectancy, there is a rise in the number of visually impaired individuals and subsequently a rise in the number of falls and fractures. In this study, a review of the incidence and risk factors of musculoskeletal system fractures and falls was conducted, with the incidence of visual impairments in the general population. Another review of different types of visual impairments was done that included potential risk factors for fractures, falls and soft tissue injuries of the hand and if there has been any association between these specific visual impairments and the risk of falling, getting a fracture or a soft tissue injury of the hand.