How to Treat and Prevent Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that affects millions of people over age 60 in the United States. It makes bones weak and more likely to break. In women, the most common cause is menopause. During this time, the levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone go down. These hormones help keep bones strong. As people get older, bones naturally lose strength, and sometimes medicine is needed to help.

When bones get weaker, they can break more easily—even from small accidents like tripping or falling from standing up. Common places for these breaks include the wrist, shoulder, hip, and spine. The good news is that there are treatments and lifestyle changes that can help slow down bone loss and even improve bone strength.

Some people think that just exercising and taking calcium and vitamin D will stop osteoporosis. Exercise is very important. Lifting weights, doing yoga, or even walking regularly can help. Calcium and vitamin D also help, especially for people who don’t move around much, like those in nursing homes. But even healthy, active people can still get osteoporosis as they age.

There are safe and low-cost medicines that work well to treat osteoporosis. Sadly, some people are afraid to take them because of things they’ve heard. The most common pills used are Fosamax and Boniva. Some people worry about rare side effects like strange bone breaks or jaw problems. But these side effects are extremely rare—less than 1 in 250,000 people. Doctors also recommend taking a break from the medicine after a few years to help avoid problems.

There are also injectable medicines like Prolia, Forteo, Tymlos, and Evenity. These help build new bone and are usually used if the pills don’t work or can’t be taken. These shots are more expensive but work very well. Like all medicines, they may have side effects, but most people do fine with them.

The best way to fight osteoporosis is to act early. Regular exercise and a healthy diet with plenty of calcium (from dairy or vegetables) are important. Avoid smoking and too much alcohol. Women who go through early menopause or have had their ovaries removed are at higher risk. A family history of broken bones is also something to watch for.

If you’re over 50 or have risk factors, ask your doctor about a bone density test called a DEXA scan. This test shows how strong your bones are and helps decide if treatment is needed.

One last thing: Taking only calcium and vitamin D is not enough to treat osteoporosis. Studies from the last 20 years show that using medicine is the best way to stop bones from breaking. So get moving, eat healthy, and talk to your doctor—your bones will thank you!