What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone density decreases, causing the bones to become weak and fragile, which increases the risk of fractures. While it is most common in older adults, it is particularly prevalent in women after menopause. The disease often progresses silently without symptoms and is usually diagnosed after a fracture occurs.
Treatment Methods for Osteoporosis
The primary goals of osteoporosis treatment are to stop bone loss, stimulate new bone formation, and minimize the risk of fractures. The treatment plan is determined based on the patient’s age, gender, overall health, and bone density.
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Surgical Intervention
The most serious consequence of osteoporosis is fractures. Hip fractures, which are especially common in elderly individuals, often require surgery. Such fractures can result not only from trauma but also from certain medical conditions (for example, metastatic cancers). -
Exercise Therapy
Regular exercise supports new bone formation and helps maintain muscle and bone integrity. Recommended activities include:
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Walking
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Light jogging
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Balance exercises
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Resistance training
It is important not to start exercising without consulting a doctor. An individualized exercise program should be developed for each patient.
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Nutrition
Since the body cannot produce calcium on its own, this need must be met through diet. Vitamin D plays a vital role by ensuring calcium absorption in the intestines. Therefore, a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is essential for maintaining bone health.
Calcium-Rich Foods
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Green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli)
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Milk and dairy products (cheese, yogurt)
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Legumes
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Soy products
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Fish such as salmon and sardines
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Nuts such as hazelnuts and walnuts
Sources of Vitamin D
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Milk, egg yolk
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Salmon, fish oil
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Butter
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Parsley, mushrooms
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Sunlight (15–20 minutes per day)
Note: A daily intake of at least 1000 mg of calcium and an adequate level of vitamin D is recommended for healthy bones.
4. Reducing Fracture Risk
Individuals with osteoporosis are at a higher risk of falls and fractures. Therefore:
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Avoid slippery surfaces
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Secure carpets to the floor
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Ensure proper lighting at home
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Use support when walking
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Consider using hip protectors if necessary
The Importance of Sunlight
Daily exposure to sunlight helps the skin produce vitamin D. However, excessive exposure may lead to skin problems, so sun exposure should be balanced and protective.
Conclusion
In the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, regular check-ups, proper nutrition, exercise, and medication should be considered together. Early diagnosis improves quality of life and helps prevent serious complications such as fractures in the future.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Osteoporosis is usually diagnosed through bone mineral density (BMD) testing. The results of the bone densitometry test guide the treatment plan, which often includes:
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Pain Management: Painkillers may be prescribed by a doctor during painful episodes.
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Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements: Supplementation may be recommended if dietary intake is insufficient.
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Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERM): These medications mimic the beneficial effects of estrogen on bones. They are especially effective in helping postmenopausal women maintain bone density and reduce the risk of vertebral fractures.
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Physical Therapy and Bracing: Exercises that support bone and muscle strength, combined with the use of braces, may help improve posture and reduce complications.
Symptoms:
- Persistent or sudden pain in the back and waist region
- Gum recession
- Decreased grip strength
- Shortening of height and development of a stooped posture
- Fractures or cracks occurring even with simple movements
- Increased nail fragility
- Postural changes and spinal curvature
What Causes Osteoporosis at a Young Age?
The period when bones are most capable of growing and strengthening is up to the age of 30. During this time, it is important to get sufficient amounts of vitamin D and calcium, engage in regular physical activity, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. In addition, avoiding harmful habits such as smoking and alcohol—both of which contribute to many diseases—is essential. By following these recommendations, the risk of developing osteoporosis can be significantly reduced.
- In osteoporosis, symptoms are often minimal. The most significant sign is fractures that occur even after minor impacts or simple falls. These fractures most commonly affect the hip, wrist, and spine. Spinal fractures may lead to loss of height, spinal deformities, and persistent back pain.
- Osteoporosis patients often experience pain in the back region. In older individuals, it may also cause muscle pain and stiffness. Osteoporosis not only reduces bone density but also leads to deterioration of the internal bone structure.
- Osteoporosis patients often experience pain in the back region. In older individuals, it may also cause muscle pain and stiffness. Osteoporosis not only reduces bone density but also leads to deterioration of the internal bone structure.
- In young individuals, osteoporosis usually develops as a result of various factors such as poor nutrition, insufficient physical activity, hormonal disorders, use of certain medications, and deficiencies in calcium and vitamin D.
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