Understanding all About Osteoporosis and its Treatment Options

A person with osteoporosis will have bones that are very brittle and weak. In such patients, new bone formation is not at par with their bone loss, and the bones can break with even very little pressure. Commonly, fractures are mostly seen at a person’s hip, spine, or wrist. If you have experienced any bone-related issues recently, see the best orthopedic doctor in India immediately for timely evaluation and treatment.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis does not give any indications in its early stages. A fracture is usually the first indicator of the condition in a person. Minor symptoms like weak or brittle nails or receding gums can be a sign of osteoporosis. Once the condition sets in and a person’s bones become weak, he/she could experience symptoms like back or neck pain or a loss in height.

Risk Factors

With increasing age, a person is more at risk for developing osteoporosis. Chances of getting the condition are more if a person’s family has a history of the condition. In women with menopause, lower estrogen levels are a major risk factor, while in men, low testosterone levels can trigger bone loss.

Excess of thyroid hormones can also lead to osteoporosis. A poor diet low in calcium can lead to the condition. Some corticosteroid medicines like prednisone can also trigger bone loss. People with sedentary lifestyles and habits like excessive alcohol consumption, and tobacco use are also more at risk.

Contact a reputed center for knee replacement surgery in India to know more about osteoporosis and its symptoms.

Treatment for Osteoporosis

Your doctor may suggest taking a test called densitometry if he feels you have osteoporosis or are at significant risk for the condition. If the test results show osteoporosis, your doctor will prescribe medications and lifestyle changes so that your condition does not worsen. Even though osteoporosis is incurable, timely treatment can maintain and increase your bone strength and can help prevent fractures.

1. Medications

• Bisphosphonates are most commonly prescribed for osteoporosis since they prevent the loss of bone mass. Examples are Zoledronic acid and Risedronate. Probable side effects of these medicines include abdominal pain and nausea.
• Another medicine option is Denosumab, taken in the form of an injection under the skin twice a year. But, studies show that once Denosumab is administered, you have to continue getting it lifelong, or you run the risk of getting a spinal column fracture.
• Estrogen therapy is known to help maintain bone density. However, it puts women at risk for conditions like breast cancer or blood clots.
• Your doctor may also prescribe medicines like Teriparatide that stimulate bone growth.

2. Diet Changes

Along with these medicines, you also need to consume a diet that will strengthen your bones. Calcium and vitamin D are the two crucial nutrients required for maintaining bone strength. Other than these, you also need protein, vitamin K, zinc, and magnesium. Get in touch with the best orthopedic surgeon in India to know about the ideal diet to have for your condition. He will also advise you on whether you need to take vitamin supplements to improve your bone health.

In addition to a nutritious diet, exercising will help to improve your bone health. You can do weight-bearing exercises like push-ups, squats, or leg presses after consulting your doctor.

If someone in your family suffers from bone issues, it is advisable to visit Shalby Hospital, the best orthopedic hospital in India, at the earliest. The hospital’s experienced orthopedic doctors will put together the best treatment plan for you that will help you maintain a healthy, active life.