Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis, often called “the silent disease”, is a bone disease characterized by decrease in bone mass and density resulting in brittle, fragile bones that are more susceptible to fractures, even without injury. The condition most commonly develops in post-menopausal women and men over the age of 70. The exact cause of osteoporosis is not known, however the factors that increases the risk of developing osteoporosis include:
Women are at a greater risk than men
Poor nutrition
Diet low in calcium
Lack of exercise
Asian people
People with thin and small body frame
Family history of osteoporosis
Women who are postmenopausal
Medical conditions, including hyperthyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome and hyperparathyroidism
Some medications such as corticosteroids, endometriosis medications, thyroid replacement medications, and antacids containing aluminum may contribute to bone thinning
Osteoporosis may cause no symptoms in the early stage of the disease. Later as the condition progresses it may cause the following symptoms:
Low back pain and neck pain due to fractures of the spinal bones
Dull pain in the bones accompanied by tenderness
Loss of the height of the spine giving a stooped posture (dowager hump)
Fractures from minimal trauma. Thinning of the bone due to osteoporosis can cause the bone to break easily.
Your doctor will make the diagnosis of osteoporosis based on the medical history, physical examination and a bone density test.
Bone mineral density test is a painless, non-invasive and safe method of measuring bone density.
Treatment
The goal of the treatment is to control pain and to prevent bone fractures resulting in hip surgery and a hunchback posture by reducing the bone loss.
There are different treatment options for osteoporosis:
Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
Vitamin D helps in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from food and is essential for maintenance of strong and healthy bones.
It is also important for normal functioning of the muscles and an overall good health. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of fractures.
Skin can synthesize vitamin D from cholesterol, on exposure to UV B rays of the sun and this fulfills most of the body’s vitamin D requirements. Vitamin D is also present in a few natural foods that include:
Oily fish such as North Sea salmon, herring, mackerel and sardines
Liver and cod liver oil
Egg yolk
Oily fish and cod liver oil are good dietary sources of vitamin D. Some foods such as milk and margarines are fortified with vitamin D. Vitamin D supplementation is recommended, in the form of tablets, powders, liquids or injection. The dose and the appropriate treatment schedule depend on the age and severity of the deficiency. Usually a maintenance dose of vitamin D is recommended, even after the treatment, to prevent any further deficiency in the future.
Exercise: Regular exercises can decrease the risk of developing bone fractures in people with osteoporosis. Your doctor may recommend exercises such as weight bearing exercises, riding stationary bicycles, using rowing machines, walking, and jogging.
Medications: Medications such as Prolia, Forteo, Reclast, alendronate, risedronate, raloxifene, ibandronate, and calcitonin are used to strengthen bones and to stop bone loss
Prevention
The tips to prevent osteoporosis may include:
Consume a healthy balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
Quit smoking and avoid excessive alcohol intake
Exercise regularly
Take medications to prevent osteoporosis
This information is not meant as individualized medical advice. It is provided solely for education. Our practice would be pleased to discuss your unique circumstances and needs as they relate to these topics.
