For the human body to remain upright, it is necessary to have a strong bone structure. A strong bone structure is formed by having solid connective tissues that make up the bone and these connections being supported with sufficient amounts of calcium. At age 25, our bones reach their maximum capacity to store calcium, and after this age, the amount of calcium in bones gradually decreases. If this bone loss that occurs as age progresses creates a risk of fracture, we can then speak of bone loss (osteoporosis) disease in the person. Bone loss generally causes fractures in the hip, spine, and wrist.
There are two types of bone loss. Primary bone loss occurs as a result of aging. Secondary bone loss is bone loss that occurs following any illness.
Primary bone loss has two forms. The first is bone loss that occurs following hormonal changes after menopause in women. The second is bone loss that occurs with advancing age, and this type of osteoporosis is seen in both men and women. In women, the estrogen hormone, which is high before menopause, protects bone tissue. After menopause, women’s bones can rapidly undergo calcium loss. For this reason, women should have bone density measurements after age 50, and if bone loss exists, treatment should be initiated. Generally, bone loss can be seen in both men and women in their 70s. Men with widespread pain are also recommended to have bone density measurements at these ages.
Bone density measurement is called BMD (Bone Mineral Density). This measurement involves low-dose radiation. The bone density of patients’ hips and lumbar spine is examined and compared with the values that should exist according to the person’s age. Medication treatment is initiated for people with low bone density who have a high risk of fracture formation in the hips and spine.
The purpose of medications used for osteoporosis is to reduce bone resorption and increase bone formation. These medications exist in forms taken as daily tablets, as well as those given as injections every 3 months, 6 months, or 1 year. Orthopedics and traumatology specialists, physical therapy and rehabilitation specialists, and obstetrics and gynecology specialists can prescribe bone loss medications. In patients with very advanced bone loss, the use of certain hormones may be necessary to accelerate bone formation. In this case, the patient’s treatment is arranged with an endocrinology specialist. Many specialist doctors prescribe vitamin D along with calcium pills to their patients to support bone formation.
Vitamin D is important for bones. Vitamin D helps calcium to be deposited in the bones. Sun rays activate the vitamin D found under our skin. A person’s face and hands being exposed to sunlight for 15 minutes a day is sufficient for daily vitamin D. When there is vitamin D deficiency, you can use vitamins in the doses recommended by your doctor. If you are taking vitamin D orally, it will be beneficial to consume dairy products alongside it. Loading the bone tissue also increases the strength of bones. For this reason, the walks you take during the day are also important for bone health.
Secondary bone loss can be seen in some hormonal disorders, with the use of certain medications, in kidney failure, or in some types of cancer. The treatment of this type of bone loss is primarily done by healing the disease that causes it.
For our bones to be strong, we can start by storing the highest value of calcium that we can deposit in our bones until age 25. For this, it is beneficial to consume milk and dairy products and to walk on sunny days. If you are facing bone loss, your doctor will initiate treatment after performing a bone density measurement.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical condition or treatment decisions.