Osteoporosis - Restore Health Clinic

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. It occurs when bone resorption (breakdown) outpaces bone formation, leading to decreased bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue. Some key facts about osteoporosis:

• It is often called a "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without symptoms. People may not know they have it until a fragility fracture occurs
• It is more common in older adults, especially women after menopause due to declining estrogen levels. However, it can occur at any age
• Risk factors include family history, being female, advanced age, low calcium intake, vitamin D deficiency, small/thin body frame, and certain medications
• Fragility fractures most often occur in the wrist, spine, and hip
• After an initial fracture, the risk of subsequent fractures is substantially increased

Diagnosis involves a bone mineral density (BMD) test using central dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to check bone health. The test compares the patient's BMD to peak bone mass and expresses it as a T-score. Per WHO criteria:

• Normal: T-score of -1.0 or above
• Osteopenia: T-score between -1.0 and -2.5
• Osteoporosis: T-score of -2.5 or below

Treatment focuses on preventing bone loss and fractures. It may include:

• Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises
• Adequate intakes of calcium (1200-1500 mg/day) and vitamin D (800-1000 IU/day)
• Prescription medications like bisphosphonates to slow bone loss and decrease fracture risk
• Fall prevention strategies

Making lifestyle modifications is important too:

• Quit smoking
• Limit alcohol intake
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a nutritious diet with sufficient calcium and vitamin D

The good news is that osteoporosis is preventable and treatable. But it does require being proactive about bone health throughout life. Getting enough calcium, vitamin D, and exercise can go a long way toward maintaining strong, healthy bones as you age. Being aware of risk factors and getting regular BMD testing after age 65 also allows early diagnosis and treatment if needed. Taking these preventative measures helps ensure you don't become part of the approximately 10 million Americans living with osteoporosis.