Causes and Risk Factors of Osteoporosis, or Brittle Bones

To assess your susceptibility to osteoporosis, you should first understand the common causes and risk factors. There are actually a variety of factors and influences involved. These include, but are not limited to:

• Age: Our bones naturally become less dense and more susceptible to fractures as we grow older.
• Gender: Women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis than men, mainly because women tend to have lower peak bone mass and experience hormonal changes, which we get to next.
• Hormonal Changes: Changes or imbalances in hormone levels, such as reduced levels of estrogen in women during menopause can accelerate bone loss.
• Family History: There are genetic factors in bone loss.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol intake, poor nutrition, and a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to decreased bone mass.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and hyperthyroidism, elevate the risk of osteoporosis.

It’s important to note that these are risk factors, but they do not guarantee the development of osteoporosis. Many cases of osteoporosis can be prevented or mitigated with some lifestyle adjustments, proper nutrition, exercise, and timely medical intervention.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

If you are concerned about possibly having osteoporosis, then visit a physician for a checkup. The diagnostic process for osteoporosis is painless, usually involving some questions about your medical history as well as a physical assessment. The doctor will evaluate your posture, height, and spinal curvature. They may also perform a bone density test with an X-ray machine to measure bone mineral density. In some cases, the doctor may also request blood tests or CT scans.

So, what happens if it’s determined that your bone density has degraded, or is degrading? Fortunately, there are treatment options available, and we can break these down into lifestyle modifications and medications.

Lifestyle modifications include performing resistance exercises or weight-bearing exercises. It also involves eating a healthy, balanced diet particularly rich in calcium and vitamin D. Of course, it’s also always advised to quit smoking and reduce excessive alcohol consumption.

Medications, meanwhile, can help slow down bone loss by inhibiting bone breakdown, supplementing necessary hormones, and more. Your physician should be the one to prescribe the proper medication for your unique circumstance.

Worried About Brittle Bones in Feet, Ankles, and Legs?

If you are worried about the bones in your feet, ankles, and legs, then visit your primary physician for a checkup as soon as possible, or schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in District Heights, also known as a foot doctor.