Osteoporosis Treatment
If you’re suffering from osteoporosis, learn how JIS Orthopedics can help you get back to living your life without limits. To schedule a consultation, click the button below!
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Osteoporosis is characterized by weakened bones, increasing the risk of sudden and unexpected fractures. It is often referred to as a “silent disease” because many people do not realize they have it until a fracture occurs.
At JIS Orthopedics, located in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH, we are committed to helping you manage and treat osteoporosis effectively. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care that keeps you active and healthy. Contact us today!
Who Gets Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis affects millions of people worldwide, particularly older adults. Postmenopausal women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men due to a significant drop in estrogen, a hormone that protects bone density. However, men are not immune and can develop osteoporosis, particularly after age 70.
Other risk factors include a family history of osteoporosis, a history of fractures, and lifestyle choices like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. People with a sedentary lifestyle or chronic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or long-term steroid use, are also at higher risk.
Some forms of breast cancer treatment can also increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis Symptoms
Osteoporosis is often called the “silent disease” because it typically develops without symptoms until a fracture occurs. However, some signs could indicate a decline in bone mass:
- Back pain: Caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra
- Loss of height: Over time, you may notice that you are getting shorter due to bone loss in the spine.
- A stooped posture: This is often a result of compression fractures in the spine.
- Broken bones: Particularly in the hip, wrist, or spine, can occur with minimal impact.
These symptoms can develop gradually, making them easy to overlook. However, early detection is critical for effective treatment and prevention of further bone loss.
Causes of Osteoporosis
The primary cause of osteoporosis is an imbalance in the bone remodeling process. Bone is a living tissue that is constantly being broken down and replaced. When the body removes old bone tissue faster than it can replace it, bones become weak and brittle. Several factors can contribute to this imbalance:
- Hormonal changes: As mentioned, a decrease in estrogen levels in women during menopause and a decrease in testosterone in men as they age can accelerate bone loss.
- Dietary factors: A diet low in calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health, can contribute to the development of osteoporosis.
- Lifestyle choices: Lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking can weaken bones over time.
- Medications and medical conditions: Long-term use of corticosteroids, thyroid hormone imbalances, and other conditions like celiac disease can also lead to osteoporosis.
When to See a Doctor
You should consult a healthcare provider if you notice any signs or symptoms of osteoporosis, especially if you have experienced a broken bone with minimal impact. It’s also advisable to discuss your risk factors with a doctor if you are approaching menopause or have other conditions that could lead to developing osteoporosis. Early detection through a bone density test (DEXA scan) can help prevent fractures by starting treatment early.
Diagnosing Osteoporosis
The primary method for diagnosing osteoporosis is a bone density test, also known as a DEXA scan. This painless test measures the bone mineral density of bones in various parts of the body, typically the hip and spine.
The results are compared to the bone density of a healthy young adult and given a score, known as a T-score. A T-score of -2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis. Your doctor may also consider your medical history, risk factors, and any previous fractures when diagnosing osteoporosis.
How is Osteoporosis Treated?
Medications may be given if you are at a high risk of breaking a bone in the next 10 years. Medications may include the following:
Bisphosphonates
Bisphosphonates are the most commonly prescribed medications for both men and women at risk of fractures. They work by slowing down bone loss and include:
- Alendronate (Binosto, Fosamax)
- Risedronate (Actonel, Atelvia)
- Ibandronate
- Zoledronic acid (Reclast, Zometa)
These medications are usually taken orally, but some can be given intravenously.
Denosumab
Denosumab (Prolia, Xgeva) is another option that is administered via an injection every six months. It can offer similar or better bone density improvement compared to bisphosphonates and also helps reduce the risk of fractures. Continued use is often necessary to maintain its benefits.
Hormone-Related Therapy
Hormone-related therapies can help maintain bone density, particularly in postmenopausal women.
- Estrogen therapy can be beneficial when started soon after menopause but is typically reserved for younger women due to the associated risks.
- Raloxifene (Evista) mimics estrogen’s effects on bones and can also reduce the risk of certain types of breast cancer.
- In men, testosterone replacement therapy may be considered if osteoporosis is linked to low testosterone levels, although other osteoporosis-specific medications are usually preferred.
Bone-Building Medications
For severe osteoporosis or when other treatments are ineffective, bone-building medications may be recommended:
- Teriparatide (Bonsity, Forteo): A powerful drug that stimulates new bone growth, administered via daily injections for up to two years.
- Abaloparatide (Tymlos): Similar to teriparatide, but limited to a two-year treatment period.
- Romosozumab (Evenity): The newest option, given as a monthly injection for one year.
After completing a course of bone-building medications, additional osteoporosis drugs are typically prescribed to maintain the newly developed bone. If you are at low risk, you may not need medication and would just focus on reducing risk factors for bone loss and falls.
At JIS Orthopedics, our specialists in sports medicine can help create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals, ensuring the best possible outcomes for your bone health.
Can Osteoporosis Be Prevented?
Preventing osteoporosis involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits early in life to build and maintain strong bones. Key prevention strategies include:
- Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake: Ensuring you get enough calcium and vitamin D through your diet or supplements can help maintain bone density.
- Regular exercise: Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises are crucial for maintaining bone density. Activities like walking, jogging, and resistance training can help keep your bones strong and prevent hip fractures.
- Healthy lifestyle choices: Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can contribute to bone loss.
- Regular bone density screenings: Especially for those at higher risk, early detection can lead to early intervention and prevent fractures.
Take the First Step Towards Stronger Bones
Osteoporosis can be managed effectively with the right care and treatment. At JIS Orthopedics in New Albany and St. Clairsville, Ohio, we are here to help you stay active and healthy by providing comprehensive osteoporosis care. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule a consultation with our experts today and take control of your bone health!
Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander G. Athey
Contact JIS Orthopedics Today!
If you are suffering from a sports injury and want to speak to an orthopedic doctor, schedule an appointment with JIS Orthopedics today. Our sports medicine specialists are ready to help with your sports-related injuries.
We have offices conveniently located for you in New Albany and St. Clairsville, Ohio. Our experts look forward to helping you get back into the game as soon as possible!
Meet Our Orthopedic Specialists
Dr. Adolph Lombardi Jr.
Hip, Knee
Dr. Keith Berend
Hip, Knee
Dr. Michael Morris
Hip, Knee
Dr. Jason Hurst
Knee, Shoulder
Dr. David Crawford
Hip, Knee
Dr. Derek Snook
Neck & Spine
Dr. AJ Julka
Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist, Hand
Dr. Zackary Byrd
Hip, Knee
Dr. Nicholas Walla
Sports Medicine
Dr. Alexander G. Athey
Hip, Knee
