At Cranbourne Stawell Clinic, we treat many patients who suffer from osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is a common disease affecting over 1 million Australians. This disease makes bones become brittle leading to a higher risk of breaks than in normal bone. Osteoporosis occurs when bones lose minerals such as calcium, more quickly than the body can replace them, causing a loss on bone density.
As bones become thinner and less dense, even a minor bump or fall can cause a serious fracture. A 'fracture' is a complete or partial break in a bone. Any bone can be effected by osteoporosis but the most common sites are the hip, spine and wrist. Fractures in the spine due to osteoporosis can lead to a loss of height or changes in posture. Osteoporosis usually has no symptoms until a fracture occurs which is why osteoporosis is often called the silent disease.
If you have specific risk factors for osteoporosis, you should be investigated by your doctor. Anyone over the age of 50 who experiences a fracture from a minor bump or fall should be investigated for osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is diagnosed with a bone density scan. If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, there are a number of treatment options that can be considered. The best treatment option for you will depend on how severe the osteoporosis is.
Prevention of course is better than cure. You can take action to maintain and improve bone health at every stage of life. Adequate calcium intake, proper Vitamin D levels and specific exercises are all important for healthy bones. For people with low bone density or osteoporosis these 3 factors are very important.
If you have any concerns about your own bone density or wish to discuss osteoporosis in more detail, please arrange a time with one of our General Practitioners. Contact us on (03) 5996 4799 or book an appointment online.