Frequently Asked Questions about Osteoporosis

WHAT IS OSTEOPOROSIS?

Osteoporosis literally means porous bones. It is a disease in which the bones slowly thin out and become brittle. As a result, the bones are susceptible to injuries.

WHO GETS OSTEOPOROSIS?

Although osteoporosis predominantly affects women, men are also susceptible. Almost 28 million Americans, 80% of whom are women, are affected by the disease and the numbers continue to grow. Certain groups are at high risk for developing osteoporosis.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF OSTEOPOROSIS?

Osteoporosis is a silent disease. The first signs may not occur until a person develops a fracture (commonly in the hip, spine, or wrist). Other symptoms include back pain, loss of height, and a curved spine also known as the "dowager's hump."

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE OSTEOPOROSIS?

Visit your family physician, internist, or OB/GYN for appropriate testing. Presently, ultrasound of the heel offers a quick, accurate screening for osteoporosis. DEXA scan (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) is utilized to diagnose the condtion.

WHAT CAN I DO ONCE I HAVE OSTEOPOROSIS?

The exciting news is that we can treat osteoporosis with a variety of complementary therapies. Drug therapy with estrogen, Fosamax™, Evista™ and Miacalcin™ has proven to help rebuild the bone. Proper nutrition and calcium supplements can also help fight the disease. Targeted exercises can play an important role by increasing bone mass as well as improving strength and balance.

CAN I PREVENT OSTEOPOROSIS?

ABSOLUTELY! Improve your diet by including foods high in calcium. Taking calcium supplements can also improve your body's calcium reserves. Begin exercising regularly with a program including weight bearing and resistance exercises. Modify the way you perform activities of daily living so you can reduce your risk of injury related to osteoporosis.

Estrogen therapy, Fosamax™, and Evista™, can also be used to prevent osteoporosis. Each of these therapies has been shown to reduce the risk of developing the disease.

CAN I EXERCISE IF I HAVE OSTEOPOROSIS?

YES! You can exercise with proper guidance from your physician or physical therapist. Osteoporosis: An Exercise Guide was designed to give you safe, practical exercises to perform. It offers guidelines and safety tips to prevent or reduce the impact of osteoporosis. The booklet's exercises can be used for exercisers of all fitness levels. However, please check with your physician before beginning this or any exercise program.