Osteoporosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Synopsis

Osteoporosis is a condition characterised by weakened bones, making them fragile and prone to fractures. Symptoms include back pain, loss of height, and frequent fractures. Causes range from aging and hormonal imbalances to poor nutrition and lifestyle habits. Treatment focuses on medications, dietary changes, and exercise. Prevention and early diagnosis via a bone mineral density test are crucial to managing the condition.

Understanding Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, meaning “porous bones,” is a condition where bones become weak and brittle due to a loss of density. It develops silently over time and is often discovered when minor injuries result in a fracture.

Bone strength relies on its density, which peaks in your early 20s. As we age, this density naturally declines. However, for individuals with osteoporosis, this loss happens at a much faster rate, significantly increasing the risk of fractures, particularly in the hips, spine, and wrists. Women, especially after menopause, are at a higher risk due to the rapid drop in oestrogen levels, a hormone vital for bone health.

Osteoporosis isn’t just a natural consequence of aging—it’s preventable and manageable with the right lifestyle choices and medical interventions.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because its symptoms may not be apparent until a fracture occurs. Common symptoms include:

Back pain: Often caused by compression fractures in the spine. The pain may feel sharp and persistent, affecting mobility.
Loss of height: Over time, vertebrae weaken and collapse, leading to noticeable height reduction.
Stooped posture: Weak spinal bones can cause a hunched back or kyphosis.
Frequent fractures: Minor falls or even slight stress on bones can result in fractures, especially in the hips, wrists, or spine.
Weakened grip strength: Often an indicator of reduced bone and muscle strength.

These osteoporosis symptoms should not be ignored. Early intervention can help prevent further complications.

What Causes Osteoporosis?

The causes of osteoporosis can be broadly categorised into lifestyle, medical, and genetic factors:

Aging

As we age, the natural process of bone regeneration slows down significantly. In younger years, the body produces new bone tissue faster than it breaks down old bone, maintaining bone density. However, after the early 30s, this balance shifts, leading to gradual bone loss. For many, this loss is mild, but in some cases, it accelerates, resulting in osteoporosis.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormones play a critical role in maintaining bone health. In women, oestrogen helps protect bone density. After menopause, a sharp decline in oestrogen levels leads to accelerated bone loss. Similarly, men experience lower testosterone levels as they age, which also contributes to weaker bones. Disorders affecting hormone production, such as thyroid imbalances, further exacerbate this process.

Calcium and Vitamin D Deficiency

Calcium is the primary building block of bones, while vitamin D facilitates its absorption in the body. Insufficient intake of these nutrients weakens the bone structure over time, making them more prone to fractures. Poor dietary habits and limited sunlight exposure often contribute to this deficiency.

Lifestyle Factors

Certain habits significantly increase the risk of developing osteoporosis:

Smoking: Tobacco use interferes with calcium absorption and damages bone cells.
Excessive alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol affects bone-forming cells and reduces the body’s ability to absorb calcium.
Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity weakens bones and reduces muscle strength, increasing fracture risk.

Medical Conditions

Chronic illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, and chronic kidney disease can contribute to bone weakness. These conditions often involve inflammation or impaired metabolism, which can disrupt the normal balance of bone renewal.

Family History

Genetics play a significant role in bone health. If you have a close relative with osteoporosis or a history of fractures, your risk of developing the condition is higher. Genetic predispositions can also determine peak bone density and how quickly bone loss occurs over time.

Environmental factors, such as long-term exposure to certain medications like corticosteroids, can also increase the risk.

Osteoporosis Treatment

Treatment focuses on strengthening bones, alleviating symptoms, and preventing fractures.

Medications

Medications play a pivotal role in managing osteoporosis:

Bisphosphonates: These slow down bone loss and are often the first-line treatment. Examples include alendronate and risedronate.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Effective for postmenopausal women, HRT helps maintain bone density by supplementing oestrogen levels.
Selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs): These mimic oestrogen’s bone-protecting effects.
Anabolic agents: Drugs like teriparatide stimulate bone formation.

Dietary Changes

A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports bone health:

Calcium: Found in dairy, fortified plant-based milk, leafy greens, and almonds. Adults should aim for 1,000–1,200 mg daily.
Vitamin D: Critical for calcium absorption. Sources include sunlight, fatty fish, and fortified foods. Supplements may be recommended if levels are low.
Protein: Adequate protein intake helps maintain muscle and bone strength.

Physical Therapy and Exercise

Weight-bearing and resistance exercises improve bone density and reduce fracture risk. Activities like walking, jogging, and strength training also enhance balance, reducing the likelihood of falls.

Bone Mineral Density Test

A bone mineral density test is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that measures bone strength. It’s essential for individuals at risk, particularly postmenopausal women and older adults.

Lifestyle Modifications

Quit smoking: Smoking reduces bone density.
Limit alcohol: Excessive drinking interferes with calcium absorption.

Stay active: Regular exercise maintains bone and muscle health.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience persistent back pain, notice a reduction in height, or suffer fractures from minor incidents, consult a specialist immediately. For residents in Bangalore, by visiting SPARSH you can have access to some of the best orthopaedic doctors in Bangalore in an advanced diagnostic facility with personalised care. Early diagnosis can prevent severe complications and improve quality of life.

Conclusion

Osteoporosis is a manageable condition with early diagnosis and appropriate care. Focusing on osteoporosis prevention through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful habits can significantly reduce the risk. Medications and lifestyle adjustments further help maintain bone density and reduce fracture risks.

Don’t wait for a fracture to take action. Regular screenings and consultations with healthcare providers are key to lifelong bone health.