Osteoporosis: Prevention, Treatment, and Everyday Tips

Osteoporosis weakens bones and raises the risk of fractures. Many people only notice it after a fall or a broken wrist. You can learn steps to protect your bones, recognize warning signs, and understand common treatments.

Who is at risk? Women after menopause, older adults, people on long-term steroid therapy, and anyone with low body weight face higher risk. Smoking, heavy alcohol, and low physical activity add to the problem. Certain medical conditions and some medicines can speed bone loss.

How is it diagnosed? A DEXA scan measures bone density and gives a T-score. A score of -2.5 or lower usually means osteoporosis. Doctors also consider fracture history, family history, and other health issues when deciding treatment.

Treatments that work

Bisphosphonates like alendronate and risedronate are common first-line drugs. They slow bone loss and cut fracture risk. Denosumab is an injection given every six months and helps reduce fractures too. For severe cases, anabolic drugs such as teriparatide or romosozumab build bone but are used for limited periods.

Each drug has pros and cons. Bisphosphonates can irritate the esophagus and need specific dosing rules. Denosumab needs regular follow-up because stopping it can cause rapid bone loss. Talk with your doctor about risks, benefits, and monitoring plans.

Supplements and lifestyle

Calcium and vitamin D support bone health. Aim for total calcium from diet and supplements around 1,000–1,200 mg per day depending on age and sex. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium; many adults need 800–2,000 IU daily, but blood tests can guide the right dose.

Exercise matters. Weight-bearing activities like walking, dancing, and light jogging help maintain bone. Resistance training with weights or bands improves strength and balance. Balance exercises such as tai chi reduce fall risk.

Small daily habits add up. Stop smoking and limit alcohol to lower fracture risk. Make your home safer: remove loose rugs, add good lighting, and use handrails. Wear sensible shoes and consider a bone health checklist before travel or major changes.

Medication adherence matters. Missing doses or stopping treatment early reduces benefit and raises fracture risk. Set reminders, use pill boxes, and ask for a treatment summary. If side effects occur, contact your provider—often switching drugs or adjusting timing solves the issue without losing bone protection over long-term use.

When to see your doctor? If you have a recent fracture from a minor fall, a family history of osteoporosis, or long-term use of steroids, ask about a DEXA scan. If you start treatment, follow up regularly to track side effects and effectiveness.

Preparing for a visit helps. Bring a list of medications, previous fractures, and any family history of hip fractures. Ask about fall prevention, screening frequency, and the pros and cons of each medicine option.

Protecting bones is a long-term plan. With the right screening, medicines when needed, and small lifestyle changes, you can reduce your fracture risk and stay active. Talk to your healthcare team to make a clear, realistic plan that fits your life.