Definition

Osteoporosis is a disease marked by decreasing bone mass, density, and quality, making bones weak and brittle. If left unchecked, it can lead to fractures. Any bone can be affected. Fractures of special concern are of the hip, spine, and wrist.

Osteoporosis

osteoporosis bone
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Causes

Osteoporosis is caused by an imbalance between bone loss and bone formation (known as bone remodeling). After age 30, bone loss occurs more quickly. Many factors over the course of a lifetime can influence bone remodeling.

Risk

Osteoporosis is more common in older adults. It is more common in women than in men. People of Caucasian, Asian, or Hispanic ethnicity are more likely to get osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is more likely to occur if full bone mass was not achieved during your bone-building years. Other factors that may increase your chance of osteoporosis include:

  • Low weight
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol abuse
  • History of falls
  • Family history of osteoporosis
  • Postmenopausal status
  • Certain health conditions, such as:
  • Certain medications, such as antidepressants, corticosteroids, anticonvulsants, or long-term use of heparin or proton-pump inhibitors
  • Low hormone levels (low estrogen levels in women, low testosterone levels in men)
  • Inactive lifestyle
  • Certain restrictive diets that may result in a deficit of calcium or vitamin D
  • Too little sunlight—the effect of sun on the skin is a primary source of vitamin D
  • Certain cancers, including lymphoma and multiple myeloma

Symptoms

In most cases, people with osteoporosis remain symptom-free until there is a fracture. In those who do have symptoms, osteoporosis may cause:

  • Severe back pain
  • Loss of height with stooped posture (kyphosis}

Kyphosis

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Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Tests may include:

  • Blood tests
  • Urine tests

The density level of your bones may be tested. This can be done with:

Treatment

The treatment and management of osteoporosis involves lifestyle changes and medications. Although osteoporosis is highly preventable, it cannot be cured. Treatment focuses on reducing the incidence of fractures and slowing bone loss.

Lifestyle changes

Nutrition

Decrease your intake of alcohol. Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. Calcium is in:

  • Dairy products
  • Green leafy vegetables
  • Canned fish with bones
  • Calcium-fortified products

Smoking

Do not smoke. If you smoke, talk with your doctor about ways you can successfully quit.

Exercise

Exercise improves bone health. It also increases muscle strength, coordination, and balance. Do weight-bearing and strength-training exercises for maximum benefit. Balance training may help prevent falls and fractures.

Dietary supplements

People who do not eat enough calcium from food might want to take calcium supplements. Vitamin D and other supplements may also be advised. Talk with your doctor before taking herbs or supplements.

Safety measures

Falls can increase the chance of fracture in someone with osteoporosis. Here are ways to prevent falls:

  • Floors—Remove all loose wires, cords, and throw rugs. Minimize clutter. Make sure rugs are anchored and smooth. Keep furniture in its usual place.
  • Bathrooms—Install grab bars and non-skid tape in the tub or shower.
  • Lighting—Make sure halls, stairways, and entrances are well lit. Install a night light in your bathroom. Turn lights on if you get up in the middle of the night.
  • Kitchen—Install non-skid rubber mats near sink and stove. Clean spills right away.
  • Stairs—Make sure treads, rails, and rugs are secure.
  • Other precautions—Wear sturdy, rubber-soled shoes. Keep your intake of alcoholic beverages to a minimum. Ask your doctor whether any of your medications might cause you to fall.

Medications

Certain medications can help prevent bone loss, increase bone density, and reduce your risk of fractures. These may include:

  • Bisphosphonates to prevent the loss of bone
  • Parathyroid hormone therapy to stimulate bone growth
  • Selective estrogen receptor modulators to prevent bone loss, improve density, and decrease fractures

Prevention

Building strong bones throughout your early years is the best defense against osteoporosis. Getting enough calcium, vitamin D, and regular exercise can keep bones strong throughout life.

To help reduce your chance of osteoporosis:

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
  • Perform weight-bearing exercises.
  • Live a healthy lifestyle—avoid smoking and drink alcohol only in moderation (2 drinks per day for men, 1 drink per day for women).
  • If you are a postmenopausal woman at high risk for bone fractures, medications may be appropriate to prevent osteoporosis.