Osteoporosis

Bone is a living tissue. Old bone is constantly replaced by new bone. Bone mass increases from birth, reaching a maximum strength and size (peak bone mass) in early adulthood. A persons peak bone mass is determined largely by genetic factors, but other factors such as nutrition, physical activity and disease also influence bone development. As we get older, we are no longer able to replace bone tissue as quickly as we lose it. Osteoporosis occurs when new bone formation does not match the bone loss.

• Ageing
• Gender - Women are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis than men 
• A family history of osteoporosis or broken bones
• Having a thin, small-framed body
• Lack of exercise, especially weight bearing ones, such as walking
• Long-term bed rest
• Low calcium and vitamin D intake or absorption
• Smoking
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Long-term use of some medicines like steroids
• Certain other diseases like asthma, thyroid disorders and arthritis

As the loss is gradual and painless, often there are no symptoms until the first fracture occurs. The most common fractures associated with osteoporosis occur at the hip, spine and wrist. Spinal fractures can result in serious consequences, including loss of height, intense back pain and deformity. A hip fracture often requires surgery and may result in loss of independent living. But in some cases, a stooped back and loss in height may be the only visible signs that a person has osteoporosis. 

However, osteoporosis is a preventable and treatable condition. A combination of lifestyle changes and appropriate medical treatment can prevent fractures. Recent advances in treatment of osteoporosis not only prevent further bone loss but can also lead to the formation of new bone.

Therefore, if you are more than 50 years or have any of the risk factors, or have had a fracture at wrist, spine or hip, then it is highly recommended that you seek advice from an expert to assess your bone health status and take the necessary treatment to prevent further complications.

If you...

• Are post menopause and have constant pain in your neck or lower back, then you should consult your doctor for further evaluation
• Feel severe pain in your muscles or bones that limits your ability to function, then check with your doctor immediately
• Have sustained trauma or suspect fractures in the spine, hip or wrist, do an entire health check-up after consulting your doctor and take the necessary treatment

Did You Know?

• Osteoporosis is common in India, and high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among Indians is one of the major reasons for this condition
• Osteoporosis is a silent disease. You might not know you have it until you fracture a bone
• Osteoporosis weakens bones and causes fractures that can result in severe disability
• Dowagers Hump is a spinal hump that develops due to osteoporotic changes in the thoracic spine. This bent-over posture is often associated with older women although men can also get such stooped postures. The word dowager means a dignified elderly woman, and as this condition is commonly seen in women, therefore, it is called Dowagers Hump.
• It is important to encourage children to drink milk and play in the sun so as to ensure adequate calcium intake and vitamin D synthesis
• Peak bone density is reached at approximately 25 years of age. Therefore, it is important to build strong bones by this age so that the bones will remain strong later in life
• A Bone Mineral Density test is the best way to check your bone health