What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition we often see at the osteopaths and is relatively common in older people. It is often called the “silent disease” because it weakens bones without obvious symptoms—until a fracture happens. It affects millions of people worldwide, particularly older women, making it a major public health concern. But what exactly is osteoporosis, and how can you protect your bones? Let’s dive in.
Osteoporosis is a condition that reduces bone strength, making bones fragile and more likely to break. The most common fractures occur in the hip, spine, and wrist, often due to minor falls or even everyday activities.
As we age, our bones naturally lose density, but for some people—especially postmenopausal women—this process happens at a much faster rate. Instead of remaining strong and solid, bones start to develop tiny holes, resembling a honeycomb, increasing the risk of fractures.
You can see the density of the above bones decreasing from left to right.
Are you at risk from osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis can creep up unnoticed, but understanding risk factors can help you act early. Here are some key contributors to bone loss:
Hormonal Changes – After menopause, oestrogen levels drop, accelerating bone loss. Over 200 million women worldwide are affected by osteoporosis.
Glucocorticoid Medications – Long-term use of steroids like prednisolone can weaken bones, making fractures more likely.
Smoking & Alcohol – Smoking reduces calcium absorption, while excessive alcohol interferes with bone formation.
Vitamin D Deficiency – Without enough vitamin D, your body struggles to absorb calcium, leading to weaker bones.
Diagnosis –Most diagnoses of Osteoporosis is via a bone density scan. Usually after a fracture or if you have particular risk factors.
How does a bone density scan work?
A bone density scan uses very low dose X-rays to measure the density of your bones. The amount of radiation is like the amount we would get from three days of normal life. This means it’s very safe. But, if you are pregnant, you will need to rearrange your appointment.
Do I need a bone density scan?
You may be referred for a bone density scan if:
- you’ve broken a bone
- you have symptoms of spinal fractures, such as height loss, change in posture or unexplained back pain
- you have factors, such as your age or family history that increase your chance of osteoporosis and broken bones
- your bone strength is being assessed
- you may benefit from an osteoporosis medicine.
A bone density scan measures your bone density. Bone density is just one thing that helps us to understand the strength of your bones (like saying that high cholesterol is one risk factor for a heart attack). Other factors, such as your age and family history cause bones to weaken in ways not shown by the bone density scan. These will be considered alongside your bone density scan result to understand your chance of breaking a bone in the future. If you have a high chance of breaking a bone you will be offered an osteoporosis medicine.
The Royal Osteoporosis Society has developed a risk checker you can use to determine whether it may be useful to discuss getting a referral for a dexascan with your GP or we can investigate how to refer you privately.
Click on the following link to take the risk checker on the ROS website.
https://theros.org.uk/risk-checker/?campaign=77a866ee-c708-ed11-82e5-0022481b5a28
How to strengthen your bones & prevent osteoporosis
The good news? There are plenty of ways to keep your bones strong and reduce the risk of fractures. Here’s what you can do:
✅ Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – For postmenopausal women, HRT can help slow bone loss by balancing oestrogen levels.
✅ Eat a Bone-Boosting Diet – Make sure you’re getting plenty of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D from foods like dairy, leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish.
✅ Get Moving! – Weight-bearing exercises like walking, resistance training, and Pilates are great for improving bone density and preventing falls.
✅ Strengthen Your Core & Balance – Exercises that target the core and lower limbs (like Pilates) improve stability and reduce the risk of falling—one of the biggest causes of fractures.
Pilates is a great way to exercise safely if you have osteoporosis.
Final Thoughts
Osteoporosis may be common, but it’s not inevitable. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, staying active, and getting the right nutrients, you can keep your bones strong for years to come.
If you would like any more advice about whether we can treat you with osteoporosis (we can) or whether its safe to exercise just give us a call on 0141-887-3734 or email to teresa@theosteopaths.org.uk and we’ll be happy to help.
