Osteoporosis is a condition causing bones to lose strength and density and to break
more easily.
Who does it affect?
What are the risk factors?
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Management
Prevention is better than the cure
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Who does it affect?
It most commonly affects middle-aged and elderly women when their oestrogen levels
decrease after menopause. However, it can affect men as well.
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What are the risk factors?
Family history
High caffeine or alcohol intake
Cigarette smoking
Lack of exercise
Low levels of calcium in the diet
Low body mass
Long term corticosteriod use
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Symptoms
Most often, people are unaware they have osteoporosis until a fracture occurs.
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Diagnosis
X-ray technology including x-rays and bone scans.
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Management
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).
Medications to improve calcium absorption eg Calcitrol, and increase bone density, for example, biphosphonates.
Exercise - modified.
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Prevention is better than the cure
A diet high in calcium, regular weight bearing exercises and modification of risk factors from an early age, can help prevent the onset of osteoporosis later in life.
Hasting's physiotherapists will be happy to confidentially discuss any of your concerns. For an appointment call the clinic.
This fact sheet is not designed to replace the advice of your health professional.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE PHONE
HASTING SPORTS INJURY AND PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTER
Phone: (02) 6583 2111
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