Osteoporosis

In older people, the bone mass decreases along with the frequent decrease in physical activity. With osteoporosis, the bone metabolism is disturbed so that this natural bone atrophy accelerates and an imbalance develops between bone formation and bone loss.

Osteoporosis is caused by altered bone metabolism or insufficient, mechanical or muscular deformation of the bone materials. The muscular stimulus that deforms the bone via the tendons decreases with age. The speed of movement and performance also decline with age. A decrease of the muscle cross-section is therefore often observed at the measurement site as well when measuring the bone mass.
Secondary osteoporosis is caused by diseases that disturb the metabolism and/or the hormone balance. Other possible triggers are taking medications for long periods of time or excessive alcohol and nicotine consumption. Primary osteoporosis occurs without any discernible direct causes. Depending on the timing of its onset, it is called post-menopausal osteoporosis that occurs after the start of menopause or senile osteoporosis, which may occur starting at around 70 years of age.

Mientras la masa ósea solo se vea reducida ligeramente, la osteoporosis presenta únicamente síntomas leves. Sin embargo, con el tiempo se producen fracturas espontáneas, en especial en los cuerpos vertebrales. Las consecuencias de esto son dolores, una disminución de la estatura y otras alteraciones del aparato locomotor. Debido a la consiguiente menor actividad física, el rendimiento muscular y la coordinación se reducen de forma que ya esto puede conducir a caídas frecuentes.

A detailed discussion of the patient’s medical history is followed by a physical examination with several tests of mobility, muscle strength, muscle performance, balance and coordination. Radiology procedures include at least a DXA/PQCT measurement and evaluation of the bone mass/bone density as well as the muscle cross-section where applicable. X-rays can provide information on existing fractures.

Therapy depends on the cause and form of osteoporosis. It is initially designed to influence the bone metabolism in order to prevent fractures. Acute treatment is required for any fractures that have already occurred due to osteoporosis. This also means alleviating the pain associated with the fracture. Treatment for osteoporosis also aims to alleviate or eliminate any permanent pain or discomfort.
Without treatment, bone atrophy progresses so the bones become increasingly brittle. For this reason, it’s important to start osteoporosis therapy as soon as possible.
Orthoses can help stabilise and straighten the spine. They improve the body posture and activate the torso muscles.