Treatment for Osteoporosis

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In recent years, osteoporosis is responsible for more than 2 million fractures per year, and this number continues to increase. There are various steps and options in the treatment for osteoporosis to prevent it from ever occurring and also slow the rate of bone loss if you do have osteoporosis.

What is Osteoporosis?

‘Osteoporosis’ is ‘porous bone’ which means you have less bone mass and strength. It is a disease to weaken bones where you will be at risk for sudden or unexpected bone fractures. The treatment for osteoporosis during the initial stage can be a bit crucial because this disease progresses often without any symptoms or pain, and can’t be detected until bones cause painful fractures in body parts like hip, wrist and spine.

Who gets Osteoporosis?

Although both men and women are prone to osteoporosis, women are four times more likely to develop the disease compared to men. The two major reasons for osteoporosis in women are the process of losing bone speeds up for several years after the menopause and also the ovaries stop producing the female sex hormone oestrogen.

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What are the Symptoms of Osteoporosis?

There are typically no symptoms for osteoporosis especially during the early stage of bone loss. But if you have weakened bones by osteoporosis, you might have signs and symptoms that include:

  • Loss of height over time
  • Bone fractures
  • Shortness of breath
  • Change in posture
  • Back pain caused by fracture

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What causes Osteoporosis?

You can get an apt treatment for osteoporosis if you identify the causes that develop the disease. Some of the causes that lead to Osteoporosis include:

  • Age –Over time, the bones may weaken leading to bone loss besides making the growth of new bone get slower requiring a treatment for osteoporosis.
  • Intake of steroids –It can affect the production of bone reduce the amount of calcium absorbed from the gut and increase calcium loss through the kidneys.
  • Lack of oestrogen – If you have an early menopause before 45 age or a hysterectomy, which leads to the treatment for osteoporosis. 
  • Lack of exercise –Lack of weight-bearing exercise leads to loss of calcium from the bones and develops osteoporosis. 
  • Poor diet – If you don’t have enough vitamin D or calcium or if you are underweight, you need the right treatment for osteoporosis.
  • Tobacco usage –In women, it lowers the estrogen level and causes early menopause. In men, smoking reduces testosterone activity and also weakens the bones.
  • Intake of alcohol – Drinking a lot of alcohol will increase the risk of breaking a bone due to a fall requiring treatment for osteoporosis.
  • Family history – Osteoporosis can develop due to inherited factors with a very rare genetic disorder like osteogenesis imperfecta to suffer fractures.

What Tests are Performed to Diagnose Osteoporosis?

The treatment for osteoporosis requires the bone density test which is used to measure the bone mineral density (BMD) and is most commonly performed using bone densitometry or dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) that uses low levels of X-rays. This is checked usually only on certain bones, especially in the hip and the spine.

What are the Treatment for Osteoporosis?

The recommendations for treatment for osteoporosis are often based on medication to reduce the risk factors of bone loss and falls.

  • Bisphosphonates – The most widely prescribed medications for the treatment of osteoporosis are bisphosphonates like Alendronate (Binosto, Fosamax), Risedronate (Actonel, Atelvia), Ibandronate (Boniva), and Zoledronic acid (Reclast, Zometa). Side effects are less likely to occur but if medicine is not taken properly it leads to abdominal pain, nausea, and heartburn-like symptoms.
  • Denosumab – Compared to bisphosphonates, denosumab produces similar or better bone density and reduces the chance of all types of fractures. 
  • Hormone-related therapy –Taking Raloxifene drug for treatment for osteoporosis can help maintain bone density, besides reducing the risk of breast cancer.
  • Bone-building medications – The powerful drugs for the treatment for osteoporosis include Abaloparatide (Tymlos), Teriparatide (Bonsity, Forteo), and Romosozumab (Evenity) to stimulate new bone growth. 

What are the Preventive Measures for Osteoporosis?

If you’re at risk for the disease and require treatment for osteoporosis, it is important to take preventive measures through diet or lifestyle changes to treat this disease. Here are some things you can do:

  • Quit smoking
  • Limit intake of alcohol
  • Engage in high-impact weight-bearing exercises
  • Maintain a healthy diet
  • Get regular screenings 

You can approach Bharath Orthopaedics as our experts here work with patients of all ages with preventive plans and treatment for osteoporosis to reduce the risk of fracture and aid them in leading a healthy lifestyle. 

When to see a specialist

Extreme distress in any of the normal areas for osteoporotic bone harm could demonstrate a surprising or unidentified crack.

Individuals ought to look for clinical assessment when they notice this kind of aggravation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The most effective treatment for osteoporosis depends on the individual’s specific condition and risk factors. Options may include medications that help increase bone density, such as bisphosphonates or hormone replacement therapy, calcium and vitamin D supplements, weight-bearing exercise, and fall prevention measures to reduce the risk of fractures. A healthcare provider can develop an individualized treatment plan.

The latest treatment for osteoporosis includes monoclonal antibody therapy, which works by inhibiting a protein that promotes bone loss, and newer forms of bisphosphonates that can be given less frequently than traditional oral forms.

Other potential treatments under investigation include medications that promote bone formation and gene therapy. Consult with a healthcare provider for the most up-to-date treatment options.

While osteoporosis cannot be cured, it can be effectively treated to help slow or prevent further bone loss, reduce the risk of fractures, and improve overall bone health. Treatment for osteoporosis may include medications, supplements, exercise, and lifestyle changes. A healthcare provider can develop an individualized treatment plan based on the patient’s specific condition and risk factors.