If you have osteoporosis, your bones may become thin and brittle, making you prone to fractures. The condition is often called a “silent disease” because most people miss its signs until they break a bone. Here are three signs of osteoporosis:
Fractures From Simple Slips
A key sign of osteoporosis is getting fractures after a minor slip or light bump that would not usually cause injury. Wrists may fracture after a minor trip and fall accident or by lifting a grocery bag improperly. In severe cases, sneezing, coughing hard, or bending over suddenly might cause rib and spine fractures. This not only causes pain but could also limit your mobility and independence.
Women are more likely to develop this disease than men because estrogen production decreases during menopause. Estrogen helps protect and strengthen bone structure. Visit a women’s health specialist if you have recently experienced a wrist, spine, or hip fracture. A specialist can review your bone density to check whether it is porous or weak. To help strengthen your bones, the doctor may prescribe medication and suggest taking supplements like calcium and vitamin D.
Curved Posture
A stooped posture or decreased height is also an indication of osteoporosis. The vertebrae in your spine compress, leading to gradual height loss. You might notice you have lost an inch or two in height as you age. This disease could also cause a rounded, hunched upper back. Some changes in posture can also affect balance, mobility, and respiratory health since hunched positions often compress the lungs.
If you notice changes in your posture or height, visit a specialist for a physical exam. Early detection may allow the doctor to recommend weight-bearing exercises and physical therapy to help prevent further bone loss. A specialist can also help patients manage any fractures in their spine to promote recovery and movement restoration.
Back Pain
Back pain is an often overlooked sign of osteoporosis. The disease can cause spinal fractures even if you do not have any visible injuries. This happens when the vertebrae in the spine weaken and collapse, putting pressure on your nerves and muscles. Pain may start gradually or occur suddenly after heavy exertion. If you experience unexplained or persistent back pain, consult a doctor to investigate the cause. With imaging tests like X-rays, they can confirm whether the pain is due to spinal injury resulting from osteoporosis. Doctors may recommend options like pain management, physical therapy, and medications to reduce the risk of further injury.
Test for Osteoporosis Today
Knowing the signs of osteoporosis early allows you to take steps to protect your bone health. Injuries from minor falls, loss of height, back pain, and a curved spine may indicate bone loss. Visiting a women’s health practitioner can help you receive the right care, whether it is bone density testing, medication, lifestyle changes, or physical therapy. Doctors can also examine your medical history for risk factors like age, genetics, and body size. Call a women’s specialist today and schedule a bone health evaluation.
Must-Have Information: Vytalsigns Inc Start Up