What Is Osteoporosis? Causes, Symptoms & How to Keep Your Bones Strong

What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens your bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. The word “osteoporosis” literally means “porous bone.” It develops when your body loses too much bone, doesn’t make enough new bone, or both. This imbalance causes bones to become thin, brittle, and less dense—so much so that even a minor fall, bump, or even a sneeze in severe cases can lead to a fracture.

Osteoporosis is often considered a natural part of aging, especially for women after menopause due to the drop in estrogen levels, which plays a key role in maintaining bone density. However, it can also affect men and even younger individuals, especially if they have risk factors such as certain medical conditions, medications, or poor lifestyle habits. While aging increases your risk, osteoporosis is not inevitable—and many steps can be taken to prevent or manage it.

Who’s at Risk?

Osteoporosis can affect anyone, but certain groups are more at risk:

• Women over 50 (especially after menopause)

• Men over 70

• People with a family history of osteoporosis

• Individuals with low body weight or small frames

• People with medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or thyroid disorders

• Long-term users of steroids or certain medications

Common Signs and Symptoms

Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because you might not notice any symptoms until a fracture occurs. But here are a few signs to watch for:

• Loss of height over time

• Back pain, often caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra

• Stooped posture or a hunched back

• Bones that break more easily than expected

What Causes It?

Your bones are constantly being broken down and rebuilt. As we age, the rebuilding process slows down. Factors that contribute to osteoporosis include:

• Hormonal changes, especially in women after menopause

• Lack of calcium or vitamin D

• Lack of physical activity

• Smoking and alcohol use

• Certain medications, such as corticosteroids

How Is Osteoporosis Diagnosed?

The bone density test (DEXA scan) is the primary and most reliable test for diagnosing osteoporosis. However, doctors may also order additional tests to rule out other conditions or determine the underlying cause of bone loss, especially if the patient is younger or has unusual symptoms. These may include:

1. Blood tests – to check levels of calcium, vitamin D, thyroid function, and markers of bone turnover

2. Urine tests – to assess bone breakdown

3. X-rays – not used to diagnose osteoporosis directly, but may reveal fractures or bone thinning

4. FRAX score – an online tool that calculates fracture risk based on several factors

So while the DEXA scan is the main diagnostic tool, your doctor may use these other tests to get a full picture of your bone health.

Treatment Options

While osteoporosis can’t be completely cured, it can be effectively managed with the right approach. The goal of treatment is to strengthen bones, prevent fractures, and maintain mobility and independence. Common treatment options include:

• Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements
  These nutrients are essential for bone health. Calcium helps build and maintain strong bones, while vitamin D improves bone formation and also calcium absorption.

• Prescription Medications
  Your doctor may prescribe medications such as bisphosphonates to slow down bone loss or newer treatments like teriparatide or denosumab that help build bone.

• Weight-Bearing and Muscle-Strengthening Exercises
  Activities like walking, climbing stairs, dancing, and light strength training can help maintain bone density and improve balance, reducing your risk of falls.

• Fall Prevention Strategies
  Simple changes around your home—like removing loose rugs, using non-slip mats, installing grab bars, and keeping rooms well-lit—can significantly lower your risk of falls and therefore, fractures.

• Lifestyle Changes
  Quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight are all important steps in supporting bone health and slowing the progression of osteoporosis.

• Regular Monitoring
  Bone density tests (DEXA scans) are often repeated every 1–2 years to monitor your progress and adjust treatment if needed.

How You Can Keep Your Bones Strong

Taking care of your bones is important at every age. Here’s what you can do:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium (dairy, leafy greens, almonds) and vitamin D (sunlight, fatty fish, fortified foods)

• Stay active with weight-bearing and resistance exercises

• Avoid smoking and avoid alcohol

• Get regular checkups, especially if you have risk factors

• Prevent falls by keeping your home safe and using assistive devices if needed

Final Thoughts

Osteoporosis may sound scary, but the good news is that you can take steps to prevent it or slow its progress. Early detection, healthy habits, and the right treatment plan can help you live an active, independent life with strong bones.

Sources:

1. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoporosis

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/osteoporosis.htm

3. Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/bone-density-test/about/pac-20385273
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoporosis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351974

4. National Institute on Aging (NIA)
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/osteoporosis