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Everything You should Know About Osteoporosis

By Dr. Shishir Kumar in Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement

Oct 15, 2020

Understanding the Silent Bone Thief

Osteoporosis is often described as a silent disease—progressing quietly until a fracture causes sudden pain and disability. With advancing age, our bones naturally become thinner and weaker, but for millions worldwide, the loss of bone density becomes severe enough to pose serious health risks.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you should know about osteoporosis—what it is, why it happens, who’s at risk, and how you can prevent or manage it.

Also Read: Metro Doctor Speak: Joint Replacements

What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis literally means “porous bones.” It is a condition in which the bones lose density and strength, becoming fragile and more likely to break—even from minor falls or routine movements.

While bone thinning is a natural part of aging, osteoporosis accelerates this process, especially in women after menopause due to hormonal changes.

Also Read: Total Knee Replacement Surgery: Everything You Need to Know

Why Osteoporosis Happens: The Science of Bone Loss

Bones are living tissue, constantly undergoing remodeling—old bone is broken down and replaced by new bone. During your younger years, this process helps build bone strength. However, after the age of 30–35, bone resorption (breakdown) begins to outpace formation.

Several factors can speed up this imbalance, leading to osteoporosis:

  • Age: Risk increases as you grow older.
  • Menopause: Estrogen decline in women post-menopause speeds up bone loss.
  • Family history: Genetics plays a strong role.
  • Dietary deficiencies: Low calcium and vitamin D intake weakens bones.
  • Lack of exercise: Sedentary lifestyles reduce bone strength.
  • Smoking & alcohol: Both interfere with bone health and hormone balance.
  • Certain medical conditions: Thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, or long-term use of steroids.

Warning Signs: Recognizing Osteoporosis Early

Also Read: What Happens When You Dislocate Your Elbow?

Osteoporosis is often known as the “silent disease” because it typically shows no symptoms until a sudden fracture reveals the underlying bone loss. However, early warning signs may include:

  • Gradual loss of height
  • A stooped or hunched posture
  • Back pain, often from a collapsed vertebra
  • Fractures from minor injuries—especially in the hip, spine, or wrist

Impact of Osteoporotic Fractures

Fractures caused by osteoporosis can be debilitating and life-altering:

  • Hip fractures often require surgery and long recovery periods and can lead to permanent disability.
  • Spinal fractures may cause chronic pain, reduced mobility, and spinal deformity (kyphosis or Dowager’s hump).
  • Wrist fractures may limit hand function and daily independence.

Also Read: Benefits Of Knee Replacement Surgery: A Life-Changing Solution for Joint Pain

Can Osteoporosis Be Prevented? Yes—Here’s How

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits early on can greatly lower your risk of developing osteoporosis.

1. Prioritize Calcium Intake

  • Women under 50: 1,000 mg/day
  • Women over 50 & older adults: 1,200 mg/day
    Sources include dairy, leafy greens, tofu, almonds, and fortified cereals.

2. Get Enough Vitamin D

  • Helps absorb calcium and maintain bone density.
  • Aim for at least 10 micrograms (400 IU) daily through sunlight, supplements, and fortified foods.

3. Stay Physically Active

  • Weight-bearing exercises (walking, jogging, dancing) stimulate bone growth.
  • Strength training improves muscle mass and bone support.

4. Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol

  • Smoking accelerates bone loss.
  • Limit alcohol to no more than 1–2 drinks a day.

5. Prevent Falls

Install grab bars, use proper lighting, wear supportive shoes, and keep floors clutter-free.

Treatment: Managing Osteoporosis Effectively

If diagnosed with osteoporosis, timely treatment is essential to slow bone loss and prevent fractures. Management typically involves:

Medications

  • Bisphosphonates: First-line drugs that slow bone breakdown.
  • SERMs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators): Mimic estrogen’s bone-protective effect.
  • Hormone Therapy: For postmenopausal women, under medical supervision.
  • Bone-forming agents: Promote new bone growth in severe cases.

Also Read: Chronic Kidney Disease

Calcium & Vitamin D Supplements

Often recommended to meet daily requirements when diet alone is not enough.

Lifestyle Interventions

Incorporating a bone-friendly lifestyle—diet, activity, and fall prevention—is critical to long-term success.

When to See a Specialist

If you’re over 50, have a family history of osteoporosis, or notice any early warning signs, it’s important to schedule a bone health evaluation. Bone mineral density (BMD) tests like DEXA scans can assess your risk.

At Metro Hospital, Noida, our orthopedic department, led by Dr. Shishir Kumar, offers expert care in diagnosing, preventing, and treating osteoporosis. We focus on a personalized approach, combining the latest medical advancements with lifestyle management to protect your bone health.

Final Thoughts: Take Charge of Your Bone Health

Osteoporosis doesn’t have to be a life sentence. With awareness, prevention, and the right medical care, you can protect your bones and maintain your mobility and independence as you age.

By Dr. Shishir Kumar
Sr. Consultant – Spine, Joint Replacement & Orthopaedics, Metro Hospital, Noida