Is osteoporosis a serious disease?

Osteoporosis is Serious In addition to causing permanent pain, osteoporosis causes some patients to lose height. When osteoporosis affects vertebrae, or the bones of the spine, it often leads to a stooped or hunched posture. Osteoporosis may limit mobility, which often leads to feelings of isolation or depression.

How does osteoporosis affect the body?

Overview. Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle — so brittle that a fall or even mild stresses such as bending over or coughing can cause a fracture. Osteoporosis-related fractures most commonly occur in the hip, wrist or spine. Bone is living tissue that is constantly being broken down and replaced.

What are 3 common causes of osteoporosis?

There are three common causes of osteoporosis:

  • Estrogen Deficiencies in Women. Women typically suffer estrogen deficiencies during perimenopause and menopause.
  • Calcium Deficiencies. Bones are constantly losing and replacing minerals.
  • Inactive Lifestyle.

What is the best and safest treatment for osteoporosis?

Bisphosphonates are usually the first choice for osteoporosis treatment. These include: Alendronate (Fosamax), a weekly pill. Risedronate (Actonel), a weekly or monthly pill.

Is osteoporosis worse than arthritis?

Both conditions may be mild, moderate or severe, but because of the high risk of bone fractures with osteoporosis, some doctors may consider osteoporosis, especially if it is severe, to be the “worse” disease because of a high risk for other fractures.

How does peak bone mass affect my risk of osteoporosis?

The higher your peak bone mass, the more bone you have “in the bank” and the less likely you are to develop osteoporosis as you age. A number of factors can increase the likelihood that you’ll develop osteoporosis — including your age, race, lifestyle choices, and medical conditions and treatments.

Should I talk to my doctor about my osteoporosis symptoms?

But once your bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, you might have signs and symptoms that include: You might want to talk to your doctor about osteoporosis if you went through early menopause or took corticosteroids for several months at a time, or if either of your parents had hip fractures.

How can a physical therapist help people with osteoporosis?

A physical therapist or personal trainer with experience working with people with osteoporosis can help you develop strength-training routines. Proper form and technique are crucial to prevent injury and get the most from your workout.

What are the symptoms of bone loss in osteoporosis?

There typically are no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. But once your bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, you might have signs and symptoms that include: