Steroids weakened bones.

[revcathfrog]

I managed to break the long bone in my right foot the one down from my second toe on Saturday. I just stepped on my foot and heard snap. I had injured the foot 5 mths ago when my uncle fell on it at my wedding. I wonder if it is weakness in bones due to use of oral and inhaled steroids over the years.

[EmmaF91 Community Ambassador]

Hi - ouch!

It could be that your uncle caused a hairline fracture, which weakened the bone hence the sudden snap, however it may be worth asking for a DEXA scan to check your bone density.

Hope you heal quickly! X

[revcathfrog in reply to EmmaF91]

I will ask for DEXA scan, I work in the hospital and the lead radiographer advice me to do that too.

My dad ended up with osteoporosis through long term use of steroids.

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I doubt the inhaled steroids are to blame for this. I’ve been on those for over thirty years and don’t have this problem.

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ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articl...

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).

Those receiving high dose ICS with intermittent rescue steroids by systemic route are particularly vulnerable to developing ICS-induced bone disease.

I always thought this was one of the most well known side effects.

[revcathfrog]

Thanks for this. I have known it was a risk of oral steroids. I have taken vit D with calcium supplements for a few years now. I will discuss with either GP or orthopaedics.

[emmasue]

This is something that scares me. I managed to drop a large stone on my foot the other day and I was terrified that I had broken it. Fortunately I haven't. I have never broken a bone, but I know that I am at risk for osteoporosis. In your case, you may have had a hairline fracture earlier which allowed for the break later or it may be due to weakened bones. I hope it heals soon. x

[Davenpos]

I have been on prednisolone various doses bug never less than 10mg for 20 years and now 40mg for 2 years ...

Repercussions now are necrotic hips ...awaiting a decision if require hip replacement surgery....however the severity of my condition will not allow a g.a at present