Osteoporosis

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a medical condition of bones characterized by the weakening of bones and in which trabecule of bones become thin and which in turn leads to increased fragility and susceptibility to fractures. Normally, bones are made up of a dense network of minerals, primarily calcium and phosphorus, which give them strength and density. Osteoporosis occurs when there is an imbalance in the bone remodeling process, where bone formation doesn’t keep up with bone resorption (breakdown). Osteoporosis is a Silent Killer like Diabetes

Osteoporosis is three times more common in females than males.

Some key points about osteoporosis:

Reasons or risk factors: Several factors can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis. These include hormonal changes (such as menopause in women), a family history of the condition, aging, a sedentary lifestyle – lack of exercise – if we do not exercise our muscles become weak and bones become osteoporotic, a low body weight or too high body weight and eating more food can also lead to osteoporosis, addictions – alcohol and nicotine, certain medications (like long-term use of corticosteroids or pain killers), and certain medical conditions (like celiac disease or rheumatoid arthritis). CHRONIC STRESS plays a major role in causative factors
Symptoms: Chronic and severe backache, pain in neck, pain in shoulders and wrists. Recurrent sprains. Kyphosis and scoliosis resulting in decrease in height. Weakness, fatigue, difficulty in walking, cramps in legs, fracture of bone by trivial injury. Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because it progresses without symptoms until a fracture occurs. Common fractures associated with osteoporosis include hip fractures, spine fractures (vertebral compression fractures), and wrist fractures. Spine fractures can cause back pain, height loss, and a stooped posture.
Diagnosis: Blood investigations – Serum calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D. Bone density testing, typically done using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans, is the good method for diagnosing osteoporosis. This test measures bone mineral density and compares it to the bone density of a young adult, giving a T-score that indicates bone health, but it is a bit costly test. MRI scan of the affected or painful region would also show osteoporosis.
Prevention: All the medicines and supplements must be taken after consulting a doctor. Prevention is always better than cure. Preventing osteoporosis involves a combination of lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medications. Strategies include consuming a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D such as ragi, sea food, eggs, dry-fruits, spinach, fenugreek leaves and seeds, banana, custard apple, pomegranate, apple, fig, beetroot. Daily exercise for minimum 40 mins which can include yog, pranayam, walking, cycling, jogging, and some other out door sports, and engaging in weight-bearing exercises. Avoiding drugs, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic stress is a major factor affecting bone density which needs to be managed efficiently. Chronic stress can be managed by meditation and music. Avoid chocolates, soft drinks, salted food, coffee, antacids.
Specific precaution in elderly would be taking good care of not falling down, as fracture also takes time to heal in a osteoporotic body. Osteoporosis-related fractures can have serious consequences, especially in the elderly. Hip fractures, in particular, can lead to significant disability and even death. Vertebral fractures can result in chronic pain and spinal deformities.

It’s important to note that osteoporosis is a preventable condition, and early detection and appropriate treatment can help prevent fractures and improve overall quality of life for those affected by it. If you suspect you may be at risk for osteoporosis or are experiencing symptoms, it’s essential to consult with your family doctor for evaluation and guidance.

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