Osteoporosis

In osteoporosis there is a progressive loss of bone mass. The word ‘Osteoporosis’ means bone (osteo) that is porous (porosis) or full of holes. In this condition calcium is lost from the bones, they become brittle and prone to break easily (fracture). Bone fractures occur most commonly in the hip, wrist and spine.

Osteoporosis occurs earlier in more women than men, with 1 in 2 Australian women over the age of 60 and 1 in 3 men likely to suffer a fracture.

Some people are more likely to develop Osteoporosis. ‘Risk Factors’ for developing this condition include:

• Advanced age
• Family history
• Small or thin build
• Low levels of oestrogen (women) or testosterone (men)
• Physical inactivity or excessive exercise
• Low calcium and Vitamin D intake
• Some chronic medical conditions
• Poor nutrition
• Smoking

Early detection is important

Osteoporosis can be detected in the early stages by bone mineral densitometry, a simple, safe and effective technique. A referral from your doctor is needed for this test.

Features of advanced osteoporosis

• Curvature of the spine
• Loss of height
• Fractures
• Pain may be present particularly if a fracture has occurred

Can Osteoporosis be prevented?

Something can be done at all stages. Although osteoporosis cannot be cured, the loss of bone mass can be reversed or slowed down.

Preventing osteoporosis or slowing down the loss of bone mass requires a combination of steps which include: 

• A balanced diet and a regular calcium intake
• Regular weight-bearing and strengthening exercise
• Stop smoking
• Limit alcohol intake
• Discuss bone density testing and medications, if needed, with your doctor

Falls prevention

Many falls are avoidable, to help prevent falls the SA Government is offering free home assessment and some subsidised home modifications through the:

Taking Steps Domiciliary Care Early Intervention Falls Prevention Service
Southern tel. 8277 3366
Western tel. 8440 6700
Northern tel. 8256 8500
Eastern tel. 8222 1796

You can lessen the chance of having a fall by:

• avoiding situations which may cause falls
• maintaining good posture
• keeping as fit and active as possible
• having regular check-ups including hearing, sight and medical
• having a regular review of all medication
• limit alcohol

Exercise

It is advisable to consult your doctor before starting an exercise program. Regular weight bearing activities such as walking, and strengthening exercises are recommended for the prevention of osteoporosis. Hydrotherapy is helpful for people with advanced osteoporosis. Avoid bending, twisting, jarring activities, heavy lifting and sudden movements.

Nutrition

A balanced and nourishing diet helps to maintain weight and good health. An adequate intake of calcium forms part of a balanced diet and may help prevent or manage osteoporosis. After menopause between 1000 and 1500mg of calcium is generally required each day. Examples of foods high in calcium are dairy foods, salmon, sardines and calcium enriched soy milk. Serving sizes such as a large mug of calcium enriched milk and a small tub of yoghurt contain between 250 mg and 400 mg calcium.

Medications

Review medications with your doctor regularly. Some medications may make you more inclined to fall or even to cause osteoporosis. Your doctor can advise you about and prescribe for you medications to help in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. If your diet is not sufficient in calcium, calcium supplements may be necessary. Sometimes they are also prescribed in combination with other treatments. A vitamin D preparation may also be prescribed to improve the absorption of calcium. A range of medications are available for pain relief.

Specialists

Your doctor may recommend that you be referred to a medical specialist experienced in diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis SA

This is the State office of Osteoporosis Australia, a division of the Arthritis Foundation formed in response to the growing demand for information and services relating to osteoporosis.

Services provided by Osteoporosis SA include:

• Community education e.g. courses, seminars
• Health professional education
• Seminars / talks / displays
• Training workshops
• Information service and members’ library
• “Osteoblast” published quarterly for members

Osteoporosis prevention and self-management courses

This 4 week course, conducted in small groups, is offered at various locations around South Australia.

Course topics include osteoporosis pathology and bone anatomy, risk factors, exercise, nutrition, medications, accident prevention and safety, posture, pain management, communication and relaxation, as well as discussion about bone density measurement.

Opportunities are provided throughout the course to practice the exercises taught. Through problem solving and goal setting, participants learn how to use the information provided and be active managers in preventing or living with osteoporosis.

Who can attend the course?

The Osteoporosis Prevention and Self Management Course provides a range of information that is helpful to all people whether they have osteoporosis or not.

People with an interest in osteoporosis, such as lay people and health professionals lead the courses. Training is provided by Osteoporosis SA, and leaders also receive regular updates about related topics.

An excellent text book is used in the courses. This and other resources are available for purchase at Osteoporosis SA.

Useful contacts

For more information about osteoporosis contact:
Osteoporosis SA
tel. 8379 5345, Country Freecall 1800 242 141