Family History, Fractures, and Your Future Bone Health

Understanding this risk allows women to take action earlier.

Why family history matters

Genetics influence:

• Bone size and shape
• Peak bone mass
• Rate of bone loss with age

If a parent has had a hip or spinal fracture, your own fracture risk may be significantly higher, even if you are otherwise healthy (Kanis et al., 2013).

Fractures are not just “bad luck”

Fractures in later life are often linked to reduced bone density and falls. Hip fractures, in particular, can lead to long-term loss of independence and reduced quality of life.

Many of these fractures are preventable with early intervention, but poor bone density doesn’t usually come with symptoms. Therefore many women don’t know they have reduced density.

Other risk factors to consider

Family history often interacts with other factors, including:

• Low body weight
• Long periods of low physical activity
• History of eating disorders
• Prolonged breastfeeding without adequate recovery
• Early menopause

Having one or more of these does not mean fractures are inevitable — but it does mean bone health should be prioritised.

What you can do if osteoporosis runs in your family

Women with a family history benefit from:

• Regular strength training
• Appropriate impact loading
• Adequate nutrition, including calcium and vitamin D
• Early screening where appropriate – especially a DEXA scan

Exercise has been shown to reduce fracture risk by improving bone density, muscle strength, and balance (Giangregorio et al., 2018).

Why exercise guidance matters

Not all exercise has the same effect on bone. Targeted programs that include heavier resistance training and jumping/landing are more effective than general fitness classes for bone health (Watson et al., 2018).

Guidance from health professionals ensures load is appropriate and progressed safely.

The take-home message

If osteoporosis or fractures run in your family, bone health deserves attention now — not later.

Early, consistent action can significantly reduce future fracture risk and support long-term independence. A physiotherapist with exercise experience and especially in women’s health such as Jessica Dingle, is the person who can guide you through this process.

References

Giangregorio, L. M., et al. (2018). Exercise for fracture prevention. Osteoporosis International, 29(10), 2193–2210.

Kanis, J. A., et al. (2013). Family history and fracture risk. Osteoporosis International, 24(3), 1021–1028.

Rizzoli, R., et al. (2014). Risk factors for osteoporosis. Osteoporosis International, 25(3), 739–757.

Watson, S. L., et al. (2018). High-intensity exercise and bone density. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, 33(2), 211–220.