Osteoporosis Treatment

Osteoporosis is a medical condition that occurs when bones become weaker and extremely brittle. Bones affected by osteoporosis are easily fractured. Osteoporosis is most often the result of deficiencies in calcium and phosphorus. In women, osteoporosis can also occur as a result of bone loss associated with menopause. Osteoporosis can affect both men and women; however, women are more likely to suffer from fractures. Individuals with osteoporosis may experience back pain and fractures of the hips, vertebrae and wrists.

Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy for osteoporosis may include wearing a weighted kypho-orthosis harness while performing back exercises. The harness is generally worn for 30 minutes in the morning and in the evening.

Pain Treatment

• Pain medications may be prescribed to treat chronic pain caused by osteoporosis.

Treatments for Women

• Some women may benefit from hormone therapy to treat osteoporosis. In addition, women may be prescribed Evista which improved bone density in post-menopausal women. Women can also take a once-per-year IV dosage of Reclast to reduce the risk of spinal fractures. Tamoxifen may also be used in post-menopausal women to decrease the risk of bone fractures.

Treatments for Men

• Men may benefit from taking bisphophonates medications that help to maintain bone mass.

Treatments for Women and Men

• Calcitonin may be used for men or women who for one reason or another cannot take other drugs for osteoporosis. Calcitonin works by slowing bone loss. Another drug option is Forteo, which is a very strong drug that stimulates the growth of new bone. Forteo is mostly used for men or women who have severe cases of osteoporosis.