Not all fractures can be prevented. However, people can take steps to strengthen their bones and make them less susceptible to breaking. Weight-bearing exercises, such as jumping rope, jogging, walking and weight training can strengthen bones by increasing a person’s bone mass.

The risk of stress fractures can be reduced by warming up and stretching before physical activity, which is frequently the cause of these types of fractures. It also helps to start new exercise programs slowly and to build up intensity gradually. People should also wear the appropriate footwear and avoid what are known as the “terrible toos” – exercising too much, too fast, too hard and for too long.

People can also reduce their risk of fractures by taking precautions against trauma, such as wearing seatbelts and observing bicycle safety rules.

Diets with adequate amounts of calcium, vitamin D and possibly soy can decrease the risk of osteoporosis, a bone-thinning disease that often leads to fractures. Some high-risk patients are prescribed osteoporosis medications such as bisphosphonates to help strengthen their bones. These drugs can reduce the risk of fractures by between 40 and 60 percent, according to the Arthritis Foundation. The American College of Rheumatology recommends bisphosphonates for people who require long-term corticosteroid therapy for conditions such as asthma.

Scientists have found that the risk of fractures may be lower in people taking certain medications for other conditions, such as beta blockers (used to treat high blood pressure and some heart conditions) or statins (used to control cholesterol).