Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by reduced bone density and quality, leading to fragile bones and an increased risk of fragility fractures, often progressing silently until a fracture occurs, typically in the hip, spine, or wrist. Both men and women can develop osteoporosis, though white and Asian women especially postmenopausal women are at the highest risk. A healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercise, and certain medications can help prevent or slow bone loss. Osteoporosis may cause fractures even from minor falls or normal daily activities.

Causes of Osteoporosis

• Estrogen deficiency following menopause
• Surgical removal of ovaries before age 45
• Aging process (bone thinning starts after age 50)
• Family history of osteoporosis
• Small body frame size
• Overactive thyroid or parathyroid glands
• Chronic calcium or vitamin D deficiency
• Long-term use of corticosteroids
• Certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gastrointestinal diseases

Lifestyle Risk Factors

• Physical inactivity or sedentary lifestyle
• Tobacco use
• Regular heavy alcohol consumption
• Eating disorders or restrictive dieting

Common Signs and Symptoms of Osteoporosis

• Back pain, particularly from spinal compression fractures
• Loss of height over time
• Stooped posture or "Dowager’s Hump"
• Bone fractures from minor stresses or falls (fragility fractures)

Potential Complications

• Vertebral compression fractures leading to height loss or spinal deformities
• Hip fractures requiring surgery, with risks of loss of independence or even death in older adults
• Chronic pain and disability resulting from vertebral fractures

Diagnosis

• DEXA (Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) is the gold standard to assess bone mineral density (BMD)
• Conventional X-rays for detecting fractures or changes in bone structure
• Blood tests to investigate secondary causes
• QCT (Quantitative Computed Tomography) for detailed volumetric BMD measurements
• Biomarkers like C-telopeptides to evaluate bone resorption activity
• FRAX tool to estimate individual fracture risk

BBH Functional Rehabilitation Program

The BBH Functional Rehabilitation Program is a comprehensive, multidisciplinary program designed by rehabilitation physicians, physical therapists, and clinical specialists to support individuals with osteoporosis. The goal is to improve mobility, reduce fall risk, and enhance muscle and bone strength to promote safer daily living.