Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, also known as bone loss, is a disease in which bone mass decreases and the bone structure weakens. This increases the risk of bone fractures, especially in the spine, hips and wrists. The causes of osteoporosis are varied, but can be attributed to genetic factors, hormonal changes (e.g. menopause), aging, malnutrition, chronic inflammation or medication side effects.

The exact cause of the most common form, primary osteoporosis, is not yet fully understood. It is divided into two types:

There is also secondary osteoporosis, which is less common but more common in men. This form has a known cause, such as long-term treatment with glucocorticoids, diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, alcoholism, malnutrition, tumors or lack of exercise.

Common risk factors for developing osteoporosis include:

The decrease in bone mass then leads to increased bone fragility.

Many people with osteoporosis are symptom-free until they suffer a bone fracture due to an otherwise harmless injury. Typical here are collapses of the vertebral bodies or a fracture of the neck of the femur.

Pain is also common, especially in the back. These result from muscle tension and poor posture, which are a consequence of the vertebral body deformations. Vertebral body fractures often also result in a decrease in height.

Particularly characteristic signs of osteoporosis are the widow's hump, the so-called fir tree phenomenon as well as seemingly too long arms, which result from a shortening of the spine.

Since changes are only visible on the X-ray after a calcium loss of 30-50%, a bone density measurement (DXA scan) is performed, particularly in the early stages of the disease. This is a special radiographic examination that determines bone mineral density.

In terms of differential diagnosis, it is crucial to always clarify possible causes for the development of secondary osteoporosis through appropriate examinations.

Treatment of osteoporosis aims to slow the progression of the disease and reduce the risk of bone fractures.

This includes medications that inhibit bone resorption or promote bone regeneration, as well as measures to relieve pain.

In addition, regular targeted strength training is essential as it has been shown to increase bone density. The progression of osteoporosis can be slowed down by this. However, an increase in bone density requires sufficient resistance and training volume. To achieve demonstrable effects, at least 70 % of the maximum strength and strength training of 45 minutes at least twice a week are required.

Supplemental flexibility training can help improve muscle and joint flexibility.

Additional balance training improves balance and can help reduce the risk of falls.

Dietary changes are also important to prevent or treat osteoporosis. A diet rich in calcium and bases with plenty of vegetables and fruit is beneficial. Meat, sausage, sugar, salt, white flour products and phosphate-rich foods such as cola and convenience foods should be avoided, as they can have a negative effect on calcium metabolism.

Another relevant factor in the treatment of osteoporosis is orthomolecular therapy. The aim here is to supply the body with the necessary nutrients to build up bone mass and slow down its deterioration. In particular, the vitamins D and K as well as the minerals calcium and magnesium are used. These nutrients are necessary for the formation and maintenance of bone mass.

Risk factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, prolonged lack of exercise or certain medications should be avoided or reduced.

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