Osteoporosis Treatment

Osteoporosis treatment is given once the condition has already reached the troublesome stage. Obviously, preventative measures are preferred, but they must begin long before the condition starts. There are several treatment methods, including a variety of new options, used to treat porous bones. IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO TREAT YOUR OSTEOPOROSIS.

* Hormone Therapy replaces lost hormones that contribute to the loss of bone density.

* Bisphosphonates are drugs that work a lot like hormone therapy. They inhibit bone density loss and can even rebuild lost bone mass. These drugs usually have moderate to severe side effects, that may include digestive tract sensitivity and nausea.

* There are other drugs in limited usage for specific types of osteoporosis. These include Calcitonin, Teraparatide and Tamoxifen.

* Physical Therapy is used to prevent further bone loss and even rebuild new bone tissue. Physical therapy also strengthens the muscles and ligaments, which can help to support weakened bones.

Osteoporosis Treatment for Vertebral Fractures

Vertebral fractures are relatively common to experience with osteoporosis. Many fractured vertebrae do not even cause pain. Sometimes, the fracture is minor and requires little or no treatment. Other times, the fracture will cause pain and the patient might need symptomatic treatment. This will usually be in the form of pain management drugs. A better alternative might be acupuncture for back pain.

If the fracture is severe, or compromises the integrity of the spine, back surgery might be necessary. The most common surgical procedure to correct a fractured vertebral bone is vertebroplasty. If the fracture has caused a serious compression of the spine, or has occurred over more than one spinal level, kyphoplasty might be used instead.

Recommendation for Osteoporosis Treatment

All treatments for porous bones have side effects. The best treatment is prevention. Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle when you are young, in order to prevent porous bones when you are older. If you require treatment now, make sure to know all your options. Talk to your doctor about what to expect and any side effects of your treatments.

Osteoporosis Treatment to Back Pain Home 7/1/06 Revised 9/28/08