What are the available treatments for Osteoporosis?
Once a patient has been diagnosed for osteoporosis, the patient and physician should cooperate together to develop a treatment plan where the goal is to slow any further bone loss and prevent fractures from happening. Treatments for osteoporosis today may include • Dietary or Nutritional Education • Exercise (if no fracture found) – help in maintaining bone density and reduce the risk of falls • Medication – to slow bone loss and prevent fractures. Osteoporosis medications can fall into 2 categories: a) medications that slow or stop bone resorption rate b) medications that help increase bone formation • Treatment for vertebral fractures which may include: a) rest, though long-term rest accelerates bone loss b) rigid back braces for supporting the spine c) ice or heat and pain medications d)surgery such as kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty, which may be necessary in certain conditions where the patient’s fracture is causing severe pain and/or deformity, or the patient has failed to respond
