My 72-year old mother has a long history of alcohol use and now has osteoporosis. She’s been complaining of knee pain for the last two weeks. We think she fell on her knee but she won’t admit it. Would an X-ray show anything if it’s not broken?

In this age group with a history of alcohol use as described, an X-ray would certainly be a good place to start. If nothing unusual shows up, an MRI, CT scan, or even a bone scan may be needed.

Doctors are finding more and more cases of a condition called insufficiency fractures in this age group. Postmenopausal women seem to be at greatest risk, probably because of osteoporosis. The weakened bone just can’t stand up to normal, everyday stresses. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to avoid a full fracture.