What do we know about the care of people with osteoporosis?

There have been major recent advances in screening for fracture risk, diagnosis, and management of osteoporosis and in the development of Fracture Liaison Services. The latter system has proved effective in the identification and referral of people with fractures for investigation of osteoporosis and diagnosis before starting treatment to minimize the risk of further fracture. The implications of osteoporosis for healthcare staff delivering care for people with the condition are less well documented.


What are the gaps in knowledge that the Lydia Osteoporosis seeks to address?

On reviewing the osteoporosis and manual handling literature the research team identified extensive strong evidence about osteoporosis, fracture risk screening, diagnosis, medical management, Fracture Liaison Services, and further evidence on patient education, exercise, dietary advice and staff knowledge. The manual handling literature reports current best evidence and takes a principles-based approach with an emphasis on safety, especially for healthcare staff. Patient safety considerations are covered. There is an assumption that the general guidance is sufficient for a wide range of situations and groups, including older people with long term conditions. The team, therefore, set out to research the perspectives of healthcare staff and older people in receipt of care, including people receiving assistance with moving and handling.