What is Osteoporosis? How is it treated?

Osteoporosis, the most common metabolic bone disease in the population, has become a significant public health issue due to its ability to shorten life expectancy. The disease usually occurs in women after the age of 45, with a prevalence of 50-55% in women aged 50-60, 70-80% in women aged 60-70, and 85-90% in those over 70. The prevalence of osteoporosis in men over 50 is 13%. Women are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis due to their lower bone density compared to men.

What is Osteoporosis?

Bone is a living tissue that grows and constantly renews itself. Throughout life, the body replaces old bone tissue with new bone tissue at certain times. Up to the age of 30, bones continuously renew themselves. During this period, bone formation and breakdown are balanced. In the following years, bone breakdown begins to outweigh formation, leading to a decrease in bone mineral density. As bone mass decreases and bone structure weakens, the risk of fractures and brittleness increases. If the reduction in bone mass is more than 25%, osteoporosis, a skeletal disease, is diagnosed. In osteoporosis, the pores in the bone tissue enlarge, causing the bone to become spongy and weaker.

What are the Symptoms of Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a silent disease and may not show any symptoms until a fracture occurs. The most common complaint in osteoporosis, also known as bone thinning, is back pain. Small bone fractures in the spinal vertebrae cause back pain, which worsens as the number of fractures increases and leads to compression in the vertebrae. In osteoporosis, a hump develops in the back, and there is a noticeable loss of height. This hump causes narrowing in the chest and abdominal cavities, leading to the abdomen protruding forward. Shortness of breath during heavy physical activities is also a symptom of osteoporosis. Fractures in the forearm and hip bones are more common in people with osteoporosis. Those who lead a sedentary lifestyle, enter menopause early, have a family history of osteoporosis, are thin and fair-skinned, or have a low-calcium diet, as well as smokers, alcohol drinkers, and caffeine consumers, are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. Additionally, people taking thyroid and corticosteroid hormones experience faster development of osteoporosis.

What Helps Prevent Osteoporosis?

The diagnosis of osteoporosis is made by measuring bone mineral density. The diagnosis is based on the results of a painless and short procedure called bone densitometry. The most effective treatment for osteoporosis is patient education. During painful periods of the disease, pain relievers can be used, and bed rest may be recommended. Medications that contain calcium and vitamin D, which reduce bone breakdown and promote bone formation, are commonly used in the treatment of osteoporosis. Posture training and exercises that strengthen muscles and bones are beneficial for osteoporosis. Light to moderate walking, weight training, climbing stairs, playing tennis, and aerobic exercises are recommended. To prevent posture problems, patients may be advised to use a back brace.

Last Updated Date: 19 October 2022

Publication Date: 31 May 2018