Osteoporosis is weakening of bones. The bone mass density (BMD) decreases, increasing the risk of fractures. The first-level of BMD loss is known as osteopenia which, if undetected and untreated, proceeds to osteoporosis. Although the term osteoporosis is synonymous with women above 50 years of age, it is now commonly seen in men as well and is known to strike at an alarmingly younger age. There is more to osteoporosis than just calcium deficiency. In women, oestrogen is important for BMD maintenance. Post-menopausal decrease in the level leads to accelerated BMD loss. Fast changing lifestyles, poor dietary habits and lack of exercise along with heredity are some of the contributing factors.
The normal bone is made up of protein, collagen, and calcium. When the bones begin to lose their density and become unnaturally porous, they are more easily compressed – making them more likely to crack (e.g. hip fracture) or collapse (spinal fracture).
The loss of BMD occurs on a scale, and the first-level of BMD loss is known as osteopenia which, if undetected and untreated, proceeds to osteoporosis. Common areas at high risk for fractures are ribs and wrists.
Also known as ‘brittle bones’, osteoporosis is now becoming a condition that strikes at an alarmingly young age. This phenomenon is closely linked to our present-day sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diets and stressed-out existence. Here is a quiz that will tell you if you are prone to the disease.
Gender and Race (women, Asian descent > risk)
Age and Genetics (50+, family history of osteoporosis > risk)
Osteoporosis is termed ‘the silent killer,’ as it causes no specific symptoms in its early stage of bone loss. Usually, this clinical condition goes unnoticed until a person suffers from a fracture, but symptoms may appear in rare cases.
Back Pain: Back pain in osteoporosis is usually caused by fractures of the spine and is of very painful nature. This is because the fractured or collapsed vertebrae of the back pricks the nerves spreading out from the spinal cord in a radial manner.
Bone fracture: It is one of the most general symptoms of fragile bone caused by osteoporosis.
Stooped posture: In some cases, fractures of the spinal region caused by osteoporosis result in a stooped posture of the upper back, leading to loss of height. Here is a detailed information on 3 common symptoms of osteoporosis you should know about.
A DEXA scan is the standard test to diagnose osteoporosis, and if it detects the condition, one should immediately visit a doctor.
The patient is treated for the fracture and given appropriate medical care for the underlying reason. People who suffer from a fracture due to osteoporosis usually have a long road to recovery. Even after the fracture has healed, it takes a long while to rehabilitate that area and make the bones strong enough to support their weight and the stress of everyday activities.
Available medications aim to stop bone loss and increase bone strength. The use of hormone (estrogen) replacement therapy (HRT) after menopause was popular until recent times when its benefits have been questioned.
There are 2 surgical options that can reduce pain caused by spinal compression – vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty. These surgeries use 'bone cement' that is injected into the damaged spinal bones (vertebrae) to make them denser and stronger.
Here are a few guidelines on how to naturally prevent osteoporosis.
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A new study conducted at the Tokyo Medical and Dental University has revealed the associated between oestrogen and bone's protection.
A new study published in the journal Nature Communications has revealed that scientists have identified a new pathway by which the brain regulates bone density and it will help in finding new treatments for osteoporosis in older women.
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It can affect both males and females, but it is more likely to occur in women soon after menopause, because of the sudden decrease in estrogen, which is the hormone that normally protects against osteoporosis. The condition is also called as "silent disease" because one does not feel feel symptoms of bones getting weaker, and it often remains undetected until after the bearer breaks a bone.
By the age of 30, most people reach their peak bone mass. It is therefore advised that people start taking care of their bones when they are young by following a healthy diet, regular exercise and a disciplined lifestyle.
Long-term consumption of the mineral-supplemented diet could be beneficial in preventing the loss of bone and strength with age, even if you don't do exercise training.
Every one woman out of two aged above 50 suffers from the risk of getting diagnosed from osteoporosis. Only 20 per cent men suffer from chances of osteoporosis as it arises after the age of 80," said Dr Rajesh Malhotra, Head, Dept of Orthopaedics, AIIMS.
When your bones start deteriorating it can be termed as osteoporosis. There is a low bone density and the bone mass decreases which can weaken your bones. Along with medications, these natural treatments will help you.
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Calcium is a major component of bones, accounting for about 30% to 35% of the mass and strength.
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Identify patients at risk for osteoporotic fractures by clinical assessment and bone mineral density test.
Did you know women are 5 times more likely to suffer from osteoporosis than men?
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A new study conducted at the Tokyo Medical and Dental University has revealed the associated between oestrogen and bone's protection.
A new study published in the journal Nature Communications has revealed that scientists have identified a new pathway by which the brain regulates bone density and it will help in finding new treatments for osteoporosis in older women.
It can affect both males and females, but it is more likely to occur in women soon after menopause, because of the sudden decrease in estrogen, which is the hormone that normally protects against osteoporosis. The condition is also called as "silent disease" because one does not feel feel symptoms of bones getting weaker, and it often remains undetected until after the bearer breaks a bone.
By the age of 30, most people reach their peak bone mass. It is therefore advised that people start taking care of their bones when they are young by following a healthy diet, regular exercise and a disciplined lifestyle.
Long-term consumption of the mineral-supplemented diet could be beneficial in preventing the loss of bone and strength with age, even if you don't do exercise training.
Every one woman out of two aged above 50 suffers from the risk of getting diagnosed from osteoporosis. Only 20 per cent men suffer from chances of osteoporosis as it arises after the age of 80," said Dr Rajesh Malhotra, Head, Dept of Orthopaedics, AIIMS.
When your bones start deteriorating it can be termed as osteoporosis. There is a low bone density and the bone mass decreases which can weaken your bones. Along with medications, these natural treatments will help you.
Researchers say soy can help to curb negative effects of menopause and improve metabolic health.
This recipe is perfect for your munchkin who runs away from eating dry fruits.
Dr Duru Shah, Director Gynaecworld Center for Assisted Reproduction & Women's health, Mumbai tells us how to manage the post-menopause phase effectively
Dr Tejas Upasani lists out causes and the treatment to tackle back pain after 50.
Running is one of the best fitness exercises that one can follow.
Calcium is a major component of bones, accounting for about 30% to 35% of the mass and strength.
The bigger concern is that the population at large is not even aware of Vitamin D deficiency and its consequences.
A new research has found that a certain gene mutation causes 'dripping candle wax' bone disease.
Here are a few common health problems you should watch out for if you are in your 40s.
Dr Pradeep Gadge, a leading diabetologist, tells us why women should be more vigilant about the health of their kidneys.
Identify patients at risk for osteoporotic fractures by clinical assessment and bone mineral density test.
Did you know women are 5 times more likely to suffer from osteoporosis than men?
Why women suffer from joint pains during peri-menopause and menopause debunked.
Include fish in your diet because it is a superfood for strong bones.
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Did you know osteoporosis is linked to how much bone mass you have attained during your youth?
