This is part one in a two part series on osteoporosis. Osteoporosis Day is 20th October. It is a disease which can affect all of us so take the time to read up about it now.
What is Osteoporosis?
It is when the bones thin and become less dense. They become more like Swiss cheese than solid. This makes them more prone to fractures. Common places for osteoporotic fractures to occur are in the spine, hips and wrists. It is more common than you may think. In Australia someone is admitted to hospital with an osteoporotic fracture every 5 – 6 minutes. 50% of people with a fracture due to osteoporosis will have another fracture during their lifetime.
Causes/Risk Factors:
¥ Little weight bearing exercise
¥ Vitamin D deficiency
¥ Taking corticosteroids
¥ Chronic disorders like rheumatoid arthritis
¥ Eating disorders
¥ Low body weight
¥ Smoking
¥ Excessive drinking
¥ Insufficient calcium
¥ Family History
¥ Women are at greater risk than men
¥ Lack of sunlight exposure
Signs/Symptoms:
¥ Significant loss of height
¥ Fractures without any trauma to cause them
¥ Bone pain
¥ Stooped posture
Diagnosis:
This is done by a bone density test. If you feel you need to arrange one of these, see your doctor. Physiotherapists are trained to identify the signs and symptoms of osteoporosis, and will refer you on as appropriate. Please speak to us today if you have concerns about your bone density. Remember that Good Country Physiotherapy has offices in Keith and Bordertown, and visit Kingston and Padthaway weekly.
Stay tuned for part two next week, where you can learn what you can do prevent and treat osteoporosis.
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