Osteoporosis

Why Is It Important to Prevent Osteoporosis Fractures?

Osteoporotic fractures are a major cause of disability and a major contributor to medical care costs in many regions of the world. Hip fractures are a serious problem and carry with them a high risk of chronic pain, loss of ability to function and even a high rate of mortality from associated complications.

What Are The Symptoms Of Osteoporosis

It is important to note that osteoporosis often does not present with any symptoms so patients are often unaware that they have the disease until they suffer a bone fracture. Spinal fractures can cause back pain, loss in height, and poor posture. Hip fractures can cause disability and even death from complications.

What Are The Causes And Risk Factors For Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis risk factors include a family history of the disease, female gender, menopause, low testosterone levels, having a thin frame, advancing age, ethnicity, alcohol consumption, smoking, low calcium diet, low Vitamin D, and lack of exercise.

Certain medical conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, and overactive parathyroid glands can contribute to bone loss. Several medications including steroids and some medications prescribed for seizures, breast cancer, diabetes, heartburn, or depression can also cause bone loss.

Many patients are classified as having a low bone density, or osteopenia, which can still increase the risk for fractures and progress to osteoporosis so it will require careful monitoring as well as appropriate treatment to minimize further bone loss.

What Are The Treatments For Osteoporosis?

Fortunately, osteoporosis is a preventable and treatable disease and the risk of fracture can be decreased with proper nutrition, calcium and vitamin D supplementations, and regular weight bearing exercise. Medications may also be used to maintain or increase bone density and decrease the risk of bone fracture.