Osteoporosis is a bone disorder in which the bones become fragile and brittle due to the loss of bone density. It is a prevalent bone disease that affects approximately 10 million people in the country. Reduced bone mass is the reason behind the reduction in bone density. It is called a “silent disorder” because many people become aware of it only when they break their bones. It develops when the bone resorption rate exceeds the new bone formation rate in the body. Osteoporosis makes a person prone to fractures, especially hip, wrists, and spinal fractures.

Management of osteoporosis
The management of osteoporosis requires several changes in lifestyle and diet. Some of the important tips to manage this condition are:

Calcium and vitamin D
Calcium is essential for healthy bones. Low calcium intake can lead to abnormal bone growth, rapid bone deterioration, and higher chances of fractures. To avoid these problems, regular intake of calcium in the diet is a must. Some of the common sources of calcium are milk, cheese, and yogurt. Vegetables such as broccoli and kale are vital, and one should incorporate these foods into their diet. The intake of vitamin D is essential for maintaining bone health because it is required for the absorption of calcium. Some fortified foods, liver, and saltwater fishes are sources of this vitamin. However, your body mostly absorbs vitamin D from sun exposure. Hence, sitting outside in the early morning is beneficial.

Avoid addiction
Smoking and alcohol addiction can worsen a patient’s condition. Smoking prevents healthy bone growth and decreases estrogen levels in women. Similarly, avoiding alcohol encourages bone growth and prevents unwanted falls.

Exercise
Some light exercises such as walking, dancing, and step aerobics are beneficial because they promote bone health and also make the muscles strong. They make the muscles flexible which helps in reducing the risk of fractures and falls.

Medications
As per the guidelines issued by the American College of Physicians, clinicians should use medications such as risedronate, alendronate or zoledronic acid to reduce the risk of hip and vertebral fractures in women with low bone density. However, in postmenopausal women, the use of estrogen or estrogen in combination with progestogen or raloxifene must be avoided as a treatment for osteoporosis.

Lifestyle changes to prevent falls
Osteoporosis makes the bones weak and fragile. Thus, avoiding falls is essential to prevent fractures. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of falls:

• Always use a cane or stick while walking outdoors.
• Use adequate light in your home to prevent falls.
• Walk slowly on a wet floor.
• Wear rubber-soled footwear for proper grip.

Surgery
Some individuals may require surgical interventions such as vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty to manage the pain associated with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures.

Osteoporosis is a medical condition in which bone density and bone strength decrease, leading to higher chances of fracture and mobility issues. Changes in lifestyle and diet can help in managing this disease.