What is Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) Programme?
As we age, our bones weaken, making them more susceptible to fractures from simple falls. Even the sturdiest bones, like those in the hip or spine, can break from a fall from standing height. These fractures, called fragility fractures, are often caused by osteoporosis, a bone disease that weakens and thins bones, making them brittle.
Unfortunately, many patients don’t get their bone health fully checked, including tests for bone strength or advice on diet and medications. Without this follow-up, they’re at risk of more fractures, which can be even more dangerous.
To prevent this from recurring, our Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) programme is designed to maintain bone health. Our dedicated team, including orthopaedic surgeons, physiotherapists, geriatricians, dietitians, FLS nurses, and more, focuses on each patient’s needs. We provide comprehensive investigation and treatment for osteoporosis, mobility restoration, counselling, and home visit follow-ups.
Why is a bone health assessment important?
A bone health assessment is crucial for early fall prevention and reducing the risk of future fractures. By assessing fall risks and identifying potential issues like bone loss or osteoporosis, timely bone health checks can guide necessary treatments, such as bone density tests or osteoporosis management. This proactive approach, particularly for the elderly, helps ensure that patients receive appropriate care, reducing the likelihood of severe complications like hip fractures or a fractured pelvis.
Early Fall Prevention
Start treatment early to improve your bone health.
Fall Risks Assessment
Reduce uncertainty about whether you need treatment to reduce your risk of breaking another bone.
Timely Bone Health Checks
Ensure timely bone health assessments after a fragility fracture to reduce the risk of further fractures within the first two years.
Benefits of the Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) Programme
The Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) Programme offers a comprehensive approach to managing bone health and preventing fractures. With thorough investigations and treatments for osteoporosis, the programme addresses bone loss and assesses fall risks to prevent future fragility fractures. Patients benefit from a dedicated pathway for consultation and treatment, including bone density tests and personalised osteoporosis management. The FLS Programme also focuses on enhancing medication compliance, restoring mobility, and improving quality of life through home visit follow-ups and patient counselling. By reducing mortality and medical costs, the FLS Programme supports effective bone healing and fall prevention.
Thorough investigation & treatment for osteoporosis
Prevention of future secondary fractures
Dedicated pathway for consultation & treatment
Reduce mortality & medical costs
Risk assessment for fall
Restore mobility & improve quality of life
Enhance medication compliance
Home visit follow up
Patient & caregiver counselling
What can I do to help myself?
Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to take care of your bone health. Take proactive steps to strengthen your bones and prevent future fractures.
Balanced Diet & BMI
Follow a healthy, balanced diet and try to maintain a healthy weight/body mass index (BMI) between 20-25.
Limit Alcohol Intake
Reduce your alcohol intake to no more than 14 units per week.
Break the Habit
Stop smoking.
Exercise Guidance
Do regular weight-bearing exercise. If you are unsure how your diagnosis may affect what you can and cannot do, speak to your GP or health professional.
Complete Follow-Ups
Ensure you attend any follow-up appointments with your doctors to monitor your bone health closely.
Continue Prescribed Medications
It is crucial to continue taking any medications prescribed to strengthen your bones.
our dedicated teams of expert includes
Our team of orthopaedic experts at the Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) Programme includes orthopaedic surgeons, geriatricians, radiologists, and subspecialty consultants, supported by FLS nurses, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. Together, they provide specialised care to address bone health issues, manage fragility fractures, and prevent further injuries. The team is also complemented by dietitians, clinical pharmacists, and a dedicated home healthcare team, ensuring comprehensive support throughout your recovery journey
Orthopaedic Surgeons
Geriatricians
Radiologists
Subspecialty Consultants
(to be referred by primary consultant)