Could Your Bone Pain be from Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease that occurs when the body loses or doesn’t make enough bone. This leads to weak bones that could be broken by a fall or, in severe cases, by just sneezing or bumping into something. Porous bone is a sign of osteoporosis. Healthy bone looks like a honeycomb when viewed under a microscope.

The body constantly absorbs and replaces bone tissue. With osteoporosis, new bone creation does not keep up with old bone removal. Loss of height is a good indicator of bone loss.

Pain Associated with Osteoporosis

When osteoporosis is severe, it can lead to bones breaking and other painful problems. Many people do not know they have this condition until they sustain a bone fracture. Bones are fragile when you suffer from osteoporosis. Fractures can happen even from simple movements that do not seem dangerous, like lifting a bag of groceries, twisting to get out of a car or tripping slightly on a rug.

Indications of bone fracture may be sudden, severe back pain that gets worse when you are standing or walking, with some relief when you lie down. Trouble twisting or bending your body along with the pain can also be a sign of a fracture. You and your doctor have a range of options to choose from to help you find relief.

Treatment Options

Pain relief treatments that can help include heat and ice. A physical therapist can help you find a safe exercise program and teach you movements that can help you feel better. Acupuncture, acupressure and massage therapy may help ease pain and tension. Treatment includes medications, healthy diet and weight-bearing exercise to help prevent bone loss or strengthen already weak bones.

If you are dealing with the effects of bone loss, schedule a consultation with the spine specialists at Hanowell Spine Clinic today for effective reliable treatment options.