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Common Causes of Osteoporosis |
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Lack of calcium and vitamin D
Not enough weight-bearing exercise
Menopause
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Treatment Plan
Bone remodeling has two stages: bone resorption and bone formation. During resorption, cells on the bone's surface dissolve bone tissue and create small cavities. During bone formation, other cells fill the cavities with new tissue. An imbalance in this cycle causes bone loss that eventually leads to osteoporosis. Antiresorptive medications slow or stop the bone resorption but do not slow bone formation. That means new formation continues faster than resorption, and bone density may increase. Other medications are available to increase the rate of bone formation.
Treatment goals for osteoporosis include stopping continued bone loss or slowing it down as much as possible and preventing bone fractures. Breaking a bone is painful and debilitating, possibly leading to a hospital stay, long-term disability and the loss of independence. Osteoporotic (thinned and weakened) vertebral bones may collapse under the weight of the spinal column, causing a crush or compression fracture. This can be painful and it is permanent.
Even if you have low bone density or osteoporosis, keep up your healthy habits. Getting enough calcium and plenty of bone-building exercise can help preserve bone.
If you have osteoporosis, your doctor may recommend:
- Moderate, weight-bearing exercise.
- More calcium-rich foods in your diet.
- Calcium supplements.
- Vitamin D.
- Medication to help slow down bone loss, increase the rate new bone is created and to preserve bone density.
More on Osteoporosis Preventing Falls in the Elderly
Yard Work - Good for Bones, Too
Prescription Choices for Menopause
Running Low on Exercise
Keeping Healthy Habits During Menopause and Beyond
A Vitamin for Your Bones
In the Encyclopedia: Seniors' health
Bone disorder drugs
Bone density test
This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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