Can osteoporosis be cured? | The Physio Fix

Osteoporosis is more common among women than men

Osteoporosis refers to weak and brittle bones. It is when your bones become fragile enough that they can easily be fractured or broken. It is defined as, " A chronic skeletal disease or bone disorder marked by low bone mass and decaying of bone tissue, resulting in increased breakability and proneness to fractures. Women are particularly at a greater risk of developing the disease after menopause but, men can get it too as they age. However, osteoporosis can develop at any age due to multiple factors but, it is more common among older adults. 

Often referred to as a "silent disease" because you might have no idea about its presence until you break a bone. Bone density generally peaks in your late 20s and starts declining gradually, after that. Bones are constantly going through a remodeling process i.e. old bone tissue is being broken down and replaced with a new bone. Osteoporosis is when bone breakdown occurs faster than the formation of new bone, leading to progressive loss of bone density as time passes. 

X-ray of a fractured shoulder

CAN OSTEOPOROSIS BE CURED?

Unfortunately, once osteoporosis has developed, it can neither be reversed nor cured. But, the good news is that the process of bone loss can be slowed down significantly to make your bones stronger and to improve the overall quality of life. This can be done by making a few lifestyle changes such as eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and taking supplements that can help. The condition can be both prevented and managed by taking the following measures; 

LIFESTYLE MODIFICATIONS

Lifestyle modifications for managing osteoporosis include a calcium and vitamin-D-rich diet. Incorporating dairy products, leafy vegetables, fatty fish, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein into your diet would be highly beneficial. 

Physical activities such as walking, running, swimming, yoga, weight-bearing exercises, and strength training could play a significant role in slowing down the progression of disease along with improving your overall health and quality of life. 

Avoiding unhealthy habits such as quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption would help in slowing down bone mass loss and prevent the weakening of bones. 

To prevent falls in older adults, improving home safety by removing all the tripping hazards and using good lighting is crucial. 10 best ways to prevent falls in older adults. 

Regular exercise significantly reduces the risk of osteoporosis in older adults

SUPPLEMENTS AND MEDICATION

Take calcium and vitamin D supplements for improving bone health along with Magnesium and Vitamin K that help in directing calcium to the bones. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any of these supplements. 

Medications for osteoporosis can include, Anti-resorptive drugs such as calcitonin, bisphosphonates, monoclonal antibodies, and Anabolic agents to stimulate new bone growth.

HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

HRT is most commonly used for the treatment of osteoporosis in women experiencing menopause. It helps in managing the symptoms of menopause by replacing the hormones that your body is no longer producing. There are two major types of hormone replacement therapy, including; 

• Estrogen-only HRT
• Combined HRT

Estrogen-only HRT is usually performed in women who have had hysterectomy i.e. removal of the uterus. It can be delivered in multiple ways such as oral pills, skin patches, gels, or vaginal creams. It is generally considered safe but, you must consult a healthcare professional before beginning the treatment. 

In some cases, HRT may involve the administration of progesterone and progestin along with estrogen. It is referred to as combined hormone replacement therapy and is particularly prescribed if you still have your uterus.

FAQs

Are osteoporosis drugs safe?

The safety and risks of osteoporosis drugs depend upon your health condition, age, and severity of disease. Generally, most of these drugs are safe to use because their benefits outweigh their risks. However, some common side effects may include, nausea, heartburn, indigestion, dizziness, and leg cramps. Hormone replacement therapy may increase the risk of formation of blood clots and stroke. 

It is recommended to consult your doctor before taking any medication for osteoporosis. 

How osteoporosis is diagnosed?

Bone density scan ( DEXA scan) is so far considered the best available method for diagnosing early osteoporosis. By measuring your bone mineral density and comparing it with that of a healthy young adult, it determines your bone health status which indicates whether you have developed the disease or not. 

Other ways may include, blood tests to measure the levels of calcium, vitamin D, and other related hormones. 

Why osteoporosis is more common in females?

Increased risk of developing osteoporosis in women, particularly depends on certain hormonal changes in their body. Estrogen hormone plays a significant role in the maintenance of bone health. Menopause in women results in declination of estrogen levels resulting in accelerated loss of bone density and increased risk of osteoporosis. Other factors that may contribute to the development of bone-related disorders include smaller and thinner bone structures as compared to men and increased exposure to age-related bone loss due to longer life spans. 

Can osteoporosis cause pain?

Yes, it can cause back pain i.e. a common complication of osteoporosis. You may experience pain in other areas of your body due to a fracture from a fall or even a sneeze as the bones become very weak and fragile. 

Can osteoporosis kill you?

Osteoporotic fractures can lead to severe pain, loss of mobility, increased risk of infections, and blood clots. These complications can prove fatal for older adults therefore, it is important to prevent and manage osteoporosis effectively to maintain bone health and longevity of life. However, the disease itself cannot cause death, directly.