Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by low bone mineral density and deterioration of bone tissue. It leads to increased risk of fractures, most commonly in the wrist, hips, and spine.
Some key things to know about osteoporosis:
Osteoporosis is often caused by hormonal changes, inadequate calcium/vitamin D intake, genetics, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and certain medications like steroids. As we age, bone breakdown outpaces bone building, leading to osteoporosis. Women are at higher risk due to menopause.
Osteoporosis is sneaky - most people don‘t know they have it until a
fracture occurs. Some warning signs include:
- Loss of height over time
- Stooped posture
- Fractures from minor stresses
- Diagnosis
Doctors diagnose osteoporosis using:
- Bone mineral density (BMD) testing - this specialized x-ray determines if your BMD falls below normal
- Medical history review
- Treatment
The main goals are preventing fractures and maximizing bone strength. Options include:
- Medications like bisphosphonates to slow bone loss
- Calcium and vitamin D supplements
- Exercise - strength training and weight-bearing exercise stimulates bone growth
- Healthy diet - plenty of calcium and vitamin D from foods like dairy, greens, fatty fish
- Fall prevention
Lifestyle changes and sometimes medications can help
strengthen bones and reduce fracture risk. But osteoporosis cannot be reversed once bone loss has occurred. That‘s why early detection and prevention are key!
At Vitality Hormone Clinic, our hormone specialists design tailored osteoporosis treatment plans involving prescription medications, supplements, diet and lifestyle changes based on each patient's unique health profile. Ask us how we can help strengthen your bones and reduce your risk of painful fractures due to osteoporosis.
I tried to focus on key information someone may want to know about osteoporosis while working in some soft promotion of the clinic. I formatted it with basic markdown, included some conversational phrases and transitions, and posed a question about treatment options to help drive traffic. Please let me know if you would like me to modify or expand this draft further.