Osteoporosis, also called the silent killer, is a debilitating disease of the skeletal system.

According to an estimate, around 3 million people are suffering from this condition in the UK. Yet, very few know about this until they get a bone fractured. The reason for this is that this condition does not present any noticeable symptoms. The condition weakens the bones of the skeletal system and turns them fragile and prone to breaking easily. The most susceptible bones being those of the hip, wrist and the spine.
Bone remodeling is a normal process. Bone forms and strengthens during the first 20-25 years of life. After a person crosses the 35th year, the bone gradually starts losing its minerals, and it becomes weaker and more fragile. This is most frequently seen in women, after menopause.

With age, the bone weakness progresses, and the skeletal system becomes osteoporotic. Other than this, the factors responsible for increasing the incidence of osteoporosis are-

● Inflammatory diseases of the body, such as Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.
● Hyperthyroidism and hyperparathyroidism.
● A family history of osteoporosis.
● Malabsorption problems.

Diagnosis of osteoporosis:
This condition can be diagnosed with a DXA scanner and FRAX tool. The DXA (Dual Energy Absorptiometry) Scanner makes use of high energy rays to get the bone density scan. It prepares a T score, where the standard deviation of -2.5 or less indicates osteoporosis. The FRAX tool measures the risk your bones are at, of developing osteoporosis in a period of 10 years.

Treatment of osteoporosis:
The treatment involves medication to improve the strength of the bones and the factors which can help to prevent the bone fracture. It also involves use of TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation), whereby the electricity operated device can stimulate the muscles and the nerves. The rehabilitative program comprises of-

● Daily workout schedule. This includes all the exercises which can build strength and flexibility in the bones, and at the same time gives them resistance against breakdown. Some examples of these are swimming, cycling, running, skipping, jumping, dancing, etc.

● Having a healthy diet. Incorporate a diet rich in Calcium and Vitamin D, such as milk and milk products, eggs, tofu, green leafy vegetables, etc.

● Quit smoking and alcohol consumption.

● Simple home measures such as heat and cold packs can provide much relief to fractured bones.

This is an overview of osteoporosis, how to diagnose it and the steps of managing this condition.

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