What Are the Solutions for Osteoporosis Pain?

Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by low bone density. Osteoporosis begins without symptoms, but as the disease progresses, the pain can become unbearable and complications, including fractures, may result.

Prevalence

• According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, 10 million Americans are living with osteoporosis and 34 million have low bone mass. Anatomically, the spine, hip and wrist are most affected.

Types

• Symptoms manifest as dull pain in the affected region. Left untreated, the pain gradually increases and as the bones get weaker, seemingly harmless activities, including sneezing, can cause fractures. The most painful fractures occur in the spine, typically in the thoracic and thoracolumbar areas.

Medication

• Over the counter acetaminophen may help with pain and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) may reduce swelling. If the pain remains, physicians prescribe stronger NSAIDs. Fractures of the spine that result in muscle spasms may require muscle relaxants.

Considerations

• Osteoporosis can be prevented and treated with a diet rich in vitamins D, C and calcium and weight bearing exercise. The Food and Drug Administration has approved numerous antiresorptive and bone growing medications.

Alternative Therapies

• Acupuncture, a Chinese therapy involving the insertion of tiny needles into the body, may be effective for pain management. Herbs that are used for pain management include yucca, white willow, boswellia and devil's claw.