Understanding and Managing Osteoporosis: A Comprehensive Patient Guide

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and brittle, making them more susceptible to fractures. It occurs when the body loses too much bone mass or makes too little bone tissue, or both.

Risk Factors

• Age (especially post-menopausal women)
• Family history
• Small body frame
• Low calcium intake
• Smoking and excessive alcohol use
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Certain medications (e.g., long-term corticosteroids)

Diagnosis

Bone Density Testing

• DXA (DEXA) scan: The primary diagnostic tool
• T-scores interpretation:
  • Normal: -1 and above
  • Osteopenia: between -1 and -2.5
  • Osteoporosis: -2.5 or lower

Prevention and Treatment

Lifestyle Changes

1. Regular Exercise

   • Weight-bearing exercises
   • Resistance training
   • Balance exercises

2. Nutrition

   • Calcium: 1000-1200mg daily
   • Vitamin D: 800-1000 IU daily
   • Protein-rich foods

Medications

• Bisphosphonates
• Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs)
• Hormone Therapy
• Biologics

Fall Prevention

• Remove trip hazards at home
• Ensure good lighting
• Use assistive devices if needed
• Wear appropriate footwear

When to Contact Your Doctor

• Sudden back pain
• Loss of height
• Change in posture
• Unexplained fractures

Follow-up Care

• Regular bone density screenings
• Medication monitoring
• Annual physical examinations
• Lifestyle assessment updates