Osteoporosis treatment

Osteoporosis is a condition where your bones gradually weaken over time, becoming fragile and prone to fractures. It often goes unnoticed until a minor fall results in a fracture. Osteoporosis primarily affects older individuals but can also impact younger adults. It can lead to fragility fractures, which are fractures that occur from minor falls or impacts.

Common sites for these fractures include the spine, hips, and wrists. Spinal fractures may cause back pain, loss of height, and a stooped posture.

Osteoporosis can be managed with medication and fracture prevention measures.

Diagnosis typically happens after a fragility fracture, as there are no early symptoms of osteoporosis. Risk factors, family history, lifestyle, and specific conditions can increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Osteoporosis is more common in postmenopausal women due to hormonal changes affecting bone density.

Treatment options include medications like bisphosphonates, denosumab, raloxifene, and parathyroid hormone treatments. Calcium and vitamin supplements are also recommended. Lifestyle changes, such as regular weight-bearing and resistance exercises, a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption, can help prevent osteoporosis.

In addition to these measures, it's important to be cautious and avoid fall-inducing hazards, like loose carpets and icy conditions. Wearing hip protectors and maintaining a balanced diet and exercise routine can further reduce the risk of fractures.

Talk to a healthcare professional for personalised advice. Recovering from a bone fracture usually takes several weeks, but osteoporosis does not affect the healing process. Pain management techniques and physical therapy may be necessary for certain fractures.

Prevention strategies include avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and sun exposure. Sunlight helps produce vitamin D, which is crucial for calcium absorption. During the winter months, taking vitamin D supplements is recommended.