What can result from a fall sideways?

A fall sideways can significantly increase the risk of hip fractures, particularly in older adults or individuals with low bone density. The lateral impact during a sideways fall places a considerable amount of stress on the hip joint and surrounding structures, leading to a higher likelihood of fracturing the femur, especially at the neck of the femur where the bone is more vulnerable.

In contrast, options that mention decreased risk of injury, improvement in balance, or enhanced muscle strength do not relate to the consequences of falling. A sideways fall generally poses a higher risk of injury rather than reducing it, and it does not contribute to balance or muscle strength improvement. In fact, experiencing falls may often lead to more significant mobility issues, a decrease in physical activity, and subsequent muscle weakening over time, further increasing the fall risk.