Osteoporosis: What you need to know

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens bones, making them thin and porous. It happens when the body breaks down bone faster than it builds it. When bones are weak, they’re more likely to break from a minor trip or fall. Often, this kind of fracture is the first sign of osteoporosis, as there are no other symptoms. These fragility fractures are most common in the hip, spine and wrist. It’s important to get a diagnosis, because 90% of people who suffer one fracture will go on to have another.

Why fractures are serious

Fractures of the spine are called compression fractures. These occur when the weight of the body exceeds what the vertebrae can support. When someone with osteoporosis breaks a hip, they may lose the ability to walk and their independence, and one in four will die within the same year.

Who is at risk

Osteoporosis is very common. One in three women and one in five men will develop it. It most often affects women who have gone through menopause or had a hysterectomy, but men are also at risk. Other risk factors include smoking, alcohol use, lack of exercise, steroid use, low calcium or vitamin D intake, family history of hip fracture, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

When and how to get screened

Anyone who has had a fragility fracture or has these risk factors should be screened starting at age 50. Women should be checked at age 65 and men at 70. The screening, called a DEXA scan, is a painless X-ray that measures bone density and should be repeated every two years. At the Roper St. Francis Osteoporosis Clinic — the largest osteoporosis clinic in the Southeast with more than 10,000 patients — we also order blood tests to ensure your body has the nutrients it needs to build strong bones, including calcium and vitamin D.

Treatment and prevention

There are several medications for osteoporosis. Some help the body build new bone, while others slow bone breakdown.

People with osteoporosis should eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D. Exercising 150 minutes a week also helps maintain strong bones. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol is important, as both can weaken bones. You can also reduce your fall risk by keeping walkways clear and well lit, having your vision checked and wearing sturdy, well-fitting shoes.

Make an appointment

If you are interested in being screened for osteoporosis, contact the Roper St. Francis Osteoporosis Clinic at (843) 606-7174.

By Katy Blair Conner, MS, MSPAS, PA-C
Certified Fracture Liaison, Roper St. Francis Osteoporosis Clinic