World Osteoporosis Day 2020: Orthopaedic Surgeon Explains Why Osteoporosis Is a Silent Epidemic

The word Osteoporosis stands for ‘porous bone’. This disease occurs when the body loses bone mass that increases the risk of sudden and unexpected bone fractures. Dr. Saif N. Shah, Senior Consultant- Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement Surgery, Medeor Hospital, Qutab Institutional Area, New Delhi explains that osteoporosis often develops without any symptom but has serious life‑changing impacts like fragility fractures and disability. There is a series of recent publications that are raising serious concerns about increased risks for fragility fractures due to Osteoporosis. 

Are women more prone to osteoporosis than men?

Though osteoporosis can occur in both men, women and children it has been found that women are more prone to suffer from this disease. This is because women tend to have lighter and smaller bones than men. Also, the risk increases if the women start menopause before the age of 45 years or she has her ovaries removed. Beyond gender, major risk factors for osteoporosis are:

• Age
• Family history of osteoporosis
• Deficiency of Vitamin D and Calcium
• Inactive lifestyle
• Use of Tobacco or Alcohol

Why osteoporosis is a silent disease?

Usually, osteoporosis has no symptoms that are why it is called a silent disease. However, if an individual is observing the loss of height (an inch or more), leaning shoulder, a curve in back or pain in the lower back then it may be starting of the disease. People above the age of 45 years or have above-mentioned symptoms are recommended to consult with the doctor regarding osteoporosis screening.

Also Read: Understanding The Possible Risk Factors Of Osteoporosis After Pregnancy

Treatment of osteoporosis will vary based on different factors such as age, sex, risk of bone fracture or previous injury history. Fortunately, new medications are available to slow down or even stop the bones to get weaker. These medicines can also decrease the risk of unexpected fractures. But drinking milk alone won't prevent osteoporosis.

Tips after diagnosis of osteoporosis

As per Dr. Shah, if one has been diagnosed with osteoporosis, then it is advised to take the below-mentioned measures to avoid potential falls that can lead to bone fracture:

• Wear well-fitted shoes with rubber soles that are in good condition and can support the ankle
• Use assisted devices, such as cane or walker. Elderly patients should keep standing cane which can be put near their bed so they do not have to find the cane when they get up at night. Most of the falls happen that ways
• Maintain a healthy diet
• Regular and balance exercises after the consultation by doctors/physiotherapists

• Keep rubber mats by the sink and in the bathrooms to prevent slipping
• Have regular checkup of sight and hear as untreated vision/hearing problem can often cause falls
• Keep well hydrated
• Rooms and house should be well lit so that you don’t trip and fall in the dark.
• Use handrails on stairs
• Follow the instructions of the Doctor

There is a critical need to raise awareness regarding osteoporosis. Don’t wait for the break leg or wrist to find out that you have osteoporosis. Our expert team of doctors at Medeor Hospital educates, diagnose and treat patients, who are at risk or already have osteoporosis. Physical therapists instruct our patients about proper exercises and tell them safety measures.

So, don’t delay and consult today to your healthcare provider about Osteoporosis screening.

Read More Articles in Other Diseases