Osteoporosis is a common disease that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly those over the age of 50. Osteoporotic fractures are one of the most significant complications of this disease, and they can lead to significant disability and even death. At Eastside Family Health Center, Frank Marinkovich, M.D – our provider – believes it is time for a new approach to your health and wellness. In this blog, we will discuss osteoporotic fractures in detail, including their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is an Osteoporotic Fracture?
Osteoporotic fractures occur when the bones in the body become weak and brittle due to osteoporosis, a disease that causes a decrease in bone density and strength. The most common areas where osteoporotic fractures occur include the hip, spine, and wrist. These fractures can happen suddenly, even from a simple fall or bump, and can lead to pain, deformity, and loss of mobility.
Causes of Osteoporotic Fractures
Osteoporotic fractures occur due to a loss of bone density, which is caused by various factors such as age, sex, genetics, and lifestyle choices. Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men, particularly after menopause when estrogen levels decrease. Other risk factors include a family history of osteoporosis, low calcium and vitamin D intake, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and sedentary lifestyle.
Symptoms of Osteoporotic Fractures
The symptoms of an osteoporotic fracture can vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture. Common symptoms include sudden and severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving or bearing weight on the affected limb. In some cases, a fracture may not cause any symptoms, making it difficult to detect until complications arise.
Is all back pain critical?
Today we like to discuss the particular entity of osteoporotic fracture. This is defined as a fracture of a vertebral body (backbone) secondary to the pathological process called osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is not osteoarthritis, Osteoporosis means a porosity of bone, i.e. a lack of critical mass of bone density.
After a certain amount of bone density is lost, bone loses this ability to act as a supporting structure. This can lead to spontaneous fractures. Even minimal amounts of pressure put on the bone, such as stepping off a curb, bending over in the shower, or moving a light piece of furniture may cause the bone to collapse. This activates pain receptors which can result in significant pain.
Treatment Options for Osteoporotic Fractures
The treatment of osteoporotic fractures depends on the location and severity of the fracture. In some cases, conservative treatment options such as pain relief medication, rest, and physical therapy may be sufficient to manage the fracture. However, in severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Surgical treatment options include the use of pins, screws, and plates to stabilize the fracture, or a hip replacement or vertebral augmentation for more severe fractures. It is also essential to treat the underlying osteoporosis to prevent further fractures. Treatment options for osteoporosis include medications such as bisphosphonates, hormone replacement therapy, and lifestyle changes such as increasing calcium and vitamin D intake, exercise, and smoking cessation.
Prevention of Osteoporotic Fractures
Preventing osteoporotic fractures starts with maintaining healthy bones throughout life. This includes a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, it is essential to get regular bone density scans to monitor bone health and detect osteoporosis early.
In conclusion, osteoporotic fractures are a severe complication of osteoporosis that can lead to significant disability and even death. It is essential to take steps to prevent osteoporosis and manage the disease if it develops to reduce the risk of fractures. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, consult your healthcare provider to discuss the best treatment options to manage the disease and prevent complications.
Our Approach
Regenerative medicine has introduced the idea of using different methods of regenerative therapy. This idea has merit not only in pain relief potentially but also regeneration. At Eastside Family Health Center, Frank Marinkovich, M.D – our provider – believes it is time for a new approach to your health and wellness. We have innovative, state-of-the art therapies for the treatment of osteoporosis and other bone degenerative conditions. It is important to speak with one of our clinicians to determine your best course of treatment. Call 425-899-2525 to schedule a consultation today.
