Osteoporosis is a common condition characterised by low bone density. It usually does not cause any symptoms until one sustains a fracture, usually caused by low-impact, sometimes referred to as a fragility fracture. The main risk factor is older age; we reach a peak bone density in our thirties before a natural and progressive decline in bone density. Due to changes in hormonal balance, this is more marked in women as they go through menopause. Other risk factors include lack of weight-bearing exercise, smoking, alcohol, diet (including low vitamin D and calcium), steroid treatment and a family history of osteoporosis.

Once osteoporosis is diagnosed (sometimes by doing a bone density scan called a DEXA scan), treatment is tailored towards the individual patient’s needs depending on the cause and severity of bone density loss, number and nature of previous fractures and any previously used osteoporosis treatment. Treatments will impact the natural biological process of bone remodelling by slowing down bone breakdown (bone resorption) and/or promoting bone build up (bone formation). The frequency and duration of treatment depends on the treatment type. Supplemental vitamin D and calcium is key to the treatment of osteoporosis.