Authors: (including presenting author): :
Kwok Y(1), Cheung YH(1), Yuen WT(1), Lam HY(1)
Affiliation: :
(1) Ortho Rehab Ward 3L, Department of Medicine, Haven of Hope Hospital
Keyword 2: :
osteoporosis
Keyword 3: :
lifestyle modification
Keyword 4: :
bone health education
Keyword 5: :
osteosarcopenia
Introduction: :
Older fracture patients frequently present with both sarcopenia and osteoporosis, a combined condition known as osteosarcopenia, which markedly increases the risk of recurrent falls, secondary fractures, functional decline, and reduced quality of life. A previously implemented ward based Sarco Tackle (sarcopenia)program in our unit demonstrated favorable functional outcomes and strong patient and staff engagement, highlighting the effectiveness of structured muscle health interventions. However, service review identified persistent gaps in systematic bone health screening, timely initiation of osteoporosis treatment, patient and family understanding of long term bone health management, and continuity of care after discharge. To address these unmet needs, Osteo-Sarco Tackle Program was developed as an expanded, integrated ward based care pathway targeting both muscle and bone health in fracture patients.
Objectives: :
1.Systematically identify fracture patients with osteosarcopenia through structured screening.
2.Deliver integrated education and interventions addressing both sarcopenia and osteoporosis.
3.Facilitate timely initiation and continuity of osteoporosis management through coordinated care planning.
4.Promote sustainable lifestyle modification to reduce recurrent fall and fracture risk.
Methodology: :
Building on the established Sarco Tackle program, the Osteo-Sarco Tackle Program was implemented as a ward based, multidisciplinary initiative. All fracture patients with low handgrip strength were screened for sarcopenia and bone health needs. Interventions included resistance and osteoporosis specific exercise guidance, nutrition support focusing on protein and calcium intake, and facilitated sunlight exposure to support musculoskeletal health.
Bone health education was expanded to include osteoporosis pharmacological treatment options, injectable therapies, bone density assessment, and long term monitoring pathways. Weekly group education sessions were introduced to enhance efficiency, peer learning, and family engagement. Patients identified as requiring osteoporosis treatment were discussed to support shared decision making, facilitate treatment initiation, and arrange appropriate follow up through bone health clinics.
A body composition analysis machine was introduced to complement handgrip strength measurement, providing objective assessment of muscle mass and sarcopenia status. Post discharge evaluation was streamlined to a single telephone follow up at six weeks to assess functional status, treatment uptake, adherence, and lifestyle changes.
Result & Outcome: :
The Osteo-Sarco Tackle Program established a coordinated, ward based osteosarcopenia care pathway addressing previously identified service gaps. Early implementation demonstrated improved systematic screening, enhanced patient and family engagement, clearer care coordination, and strengthened continuity of muscle and bone health management. Prospective data collection is ongoing to evaluate clinical outcomes, osteoporosis treatment initiation rates, and sustainability of lifestyle modification.
