Osteoporosis Treatment Options: Effective & Safe Approaches

The National Osteoporosis Foundation reports that 44 million Americans suffer from osteporosis, a disease that causes the bones to become brittle. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available to people with osteoporosis.

History

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) was the preferred osteoporosis treatment method until a 2002 Women's Health Initiative study concluded that HRT often caused health complications like certain cancers and heart disease.

Medications

• Doctors prescribe a number of drugs to treat osteoporosis, including Recast, Evista, Forteo, Tamoxifen, and Calcitonin. These drugs mimic certain hormones in the body, but are safer than HRT.

Weighted Kypho-orthosis

• Weighted kypho-orthosis is a harness worn as part of a physical therapy used for osteoporosis treatment. While wearing it, patients perform a variety of exercises that reduce back pain and strengthen the bones.

Pain Control

• The Mayo Clinic reports that chronic pain from osteoporosis often restricts mobility, which can exacerbate osteoporosis. Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol and Advil assist in some cases, while in others doctors prescribe stronger pain relief.

Self-care

• Diets high in calcium and vitamin D contribute to strong bones and help combat osteoporosis. Doctors encourage patients to practice good posture and prevent falls by wearing shoes with nonslip soles and clearing the home tripping hazards.