Osteoporosis is a condition that causes the bones become brittle, and weak. This brittleness can be so severe that even harmless actions such as coughing or bending over can lead to fractures. Most fractures caused by osteoporosis occur in the wrists or hips. But osteoporosis can also lead to vertebral fractures that cause severe back pain. We are going to look at the causes and symptoms of osteoporosis so that you can contact our office if you notice any of the signs.
What are the Most Common Causes of Osteoporosis?
Though some of the causes of osteoporosis are avoidable, others are beyond our control. Let’s check out some of them below.
- Steroids (corticosteroids) are used to manage several inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis. By reducing the absorption of calcium in the stomach, steroids affect bone regeneration in addition to heightening the loss of calcium from the kidneys.
- Lack of muscle-bearing exercises implies that you will be more likely to lose calcium. The health of your bones and muscle are connected. So it is up to you to build up the strength of your muscles through exercise.
- A poor diet lacking in Vitamin D and calcium is another cause. Smoking may lower testosterone in men and estrogen in women, leading to weak bones and early menopause. Heavy drinking also hinders bone production.
- Family history can be an indicator of osteoporosis. You can inherit genetic factors that wreak havoc with bone development.
- Age and race. As you age, the risk of developing osteoporosis increases.
Unfortunately, in most cases, osteoporosis exhibits no symptoms, especially in the early phase of loss of bone. But once the condition sets in, the following symptoms might start to be seen.
- Highly fragile bones that break too easily
- The first telltale sign is usually a collapsed vertebra or fractures, which cause back pain.
- If several vertebras are affected by osteoporosis, spine curvature follows leading to reduced height as time passes
- Stooped posture
It’s vital to note that there are several steps you might take in various phases of life to keep osteoporosis at bay. But if you exhibit any signs, your best bet would be to contact Spine Center of Texas for a professional diagnosis.
