Falling is a serious fear for many people with osteoporosis. Falls can result in painful fractures, long periods of recovery, and even permanent disability. “I constantly fear falling,” a MyOsteoTeam member wrote. “It can be depressing and overwhelming.”

For some members, the feeling is most acute when they first receive their diagnoses. One member shared: “I was really scared of falling for a long time after getting diagnosed with osteoporosis. The feeling diminishes over time, but it never completely goes away.” For others, it increases after an injury. “I have had many falls that left me with broken bones. I am terrified of falling all the time,” a member wrote.

Taking proactive measures to prevent falls helps members to feel more empowered and less afraid. “I do a special series of exercises for balance and to help with the fear of falling,” a member wrote. “I know I couldn’t get up on my own, but I can rebalance if I feel I am tipping over.”

“I'm in physical therapy now for strength building, balance, and pain control. I have high hopes,” another member shared.

Some members find they can overcome a fear of falling by making small adjustments to activities they find scary. One member shared her experience of completing a hike even though she was nervous: “I was extremely careful, and in some places climbed up on all-fours, and got down by scooting on my rear. I'm pleased that I was able to overcome my fear and pain.”

Another member agreed with that approach. “I suggest trying to get back to a relatively normal life as soon as you can. Just take care and try to avoid anything that makes you more likely to fall,” she wrote.

A change in attitude can also make a big difference for members: “I’ve decided to change my thinking from ‘I am afraid of falling’ to ‘I am cautious so I do not fall.’ Being in fear is not helpful.”

On MyOsteoTeam, the social network and online support group for those living with osteoporosis, members talk about a range of personal experiences and struggles. Fear of falling is one of the most discussed topics.

Here are some conversations about the fear of falling:

• “I constantly fear falling.”

• “I am so afraid of falling after my diagnosis.”

• “After breaking my hip I seem to be more fearful of falling.”

• “I started thinking about how easy it would be to fall.”

Here is a question-and-answer thread about the fear of falling:

• What form of exercise can I take

Can you relate? How do you deal with a fear of falling? Share your experiences at MyOsteoTeam.