The last 8-10 years have been murder. Since I turned 60, I broke both ankles at the same time. Gave me opiates and that sucked. Then broke my left knee in summer of 2016. Again, opiates for a couple of days then I switched (my choice) to Tylenol (1200 units twice a day). Last fall I had a triple fracture of my upper arm. Two months inactive, bed rest. Again opiates=never used them after a day or two due to side effects (dizziness, falling over, bad dreams). This spring (3 months after my arm, I fell and broke my left kneecap again (same one) and my upper shin. That was March=4 days in hospital and 2 months in convalescent hospital (Non weight bearing). 2 Months of rehab prescribed and I'm still in a wheelchair and rehab was extended for one to two more months. Teleworking for a month and then back to work for 2 weeks and then I retire. Used Oxy and Dilaudin for 3 days, then told the Dr to stop them!
Things I have learned:
1. I have an MS in Biology and extensive First Aid Training=Once the Drs learn that (don't be arrogant about it!), they will involve you more!
2. Use of NSAIDS interferes with bone-regrowth. Use Tylenol instead of Advil (I am using about 1800 units of Tylenol per day==more if called for (BUT I am a big guy!)
3. Muscles (such as thigh muscles) can atrophy VERY fast. I pushed rehab and did very well but my thigh muscles lost mass in 2 weeks).
4. Much info on the 'Net is bogus==get second opinions and you and your doc make the decision together.
5. Hospital and rehab food sucks!
Good luck! We just found out I have Osteopenia (similar to Osteoporosis but not as bad!)