What is Osteoporosis?

Risk Factors, Symptoms & Treatment for Osteoporosis

As we age, our bones begin to become more at risk for damage and a wide range of degenerative conditions. Osteoporosis is a condition that affects the bones, making them weak and fragile. It's often called the "silent disease," because there are usually no symptoms until a bone fractures. The term spondylosis is used interchangeably with the term osteoporosis of the spine.

Keep reading to learn more about the risk factors of osteoporosis, as well as symptoms and treatment options.

Risk Factors & Symptoms

Osteoporosis is most common in women after menopause, but it can also affect men and people of all ages. There are several risk factors for osteoporosis, including family history, certain medications, and unhealthy lifestyle choices. Some of the most common symptoms include back pain, loss of height, and frequent bone fractures.

Treatment Options

There are many treatments available for osteoporosis, including:

• Weight-bearing exercise: Regular exercise helps to improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, and lifting weights, help to stimulate new bone growth.
• Dietary changes: Eating a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can help prevent osteoporosis.
• Medications: There are a number of medications that can be used to treat osteoporosis. These include bisphosphonates, calcitonin, and estrogen therapy.
• Supplements: Taking calcium and vitamin D supplements can help to prevent osteoporosis.
• Bone densitometry: This is a test that measures the density of your bones. It can be used to diagnose osteoporosis and to monitor your progress.

Prevention Tips

Osteoporosis can lead to fractures, joint pain, and loss of height. There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of osteoporosis:

• Get enough calcium and vitamin D. Calcium is important for strong bones, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium.
• Exercise regularly. Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, jogging, and lifting weights can help build and maintain strong bones.
• Don't smoke. Smoking increases the risk of osteoporosis.

If you think you might have osteoporosis, talk to your doctor. They can diagnose osteoporosis with a bone density test and develop a treatment plan that's right for you.

Seek Treatment for Your Joint Pain

At Inspired Spine, our experienced and knowledgeable surgeons are dedicated to relieving your pain from degenerative conditions such as osteoporosis with the least invasive treatment possible.

To schedule a free consultation with one of our spine surgeons, call (952) 225-5266 today.