Επικοινωνία

Osteoporosis

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a very common condition that affects the metabolism of bones. Its main feature is fragile bones, due to reduced bone density. Today, it is estimated that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over the age of 50 have osteoporosis.

It is often called a “silent disease” because in 2 out of 3 patients there are no symptoms. Over time, however, osteoporosis can cause loss of height, kyphosis (hunched back), and chronic pain. Because the bones are weaker, fractures can occur more easily after a fall—especially in the spine, hip, and wrist.

What causes osteoporosis?

Bone density decreases naturally with age and can be worsened by lack of calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and other nutrients.
Other important risk factors include:

Gender: Women are at higher risk, especially after menopause due to hormonal changes. Men can also develop osteoporosis, usually 10–20 years later than women.
Ethnicity: People of Caucasian or Asian descent are more prone.
Family history: If osteoporosis runs in the family, the risk is higher.
Lifestyle: Poor diet, smoking, lack of exercise, and excessive alcohol increase risk.
Medical conditions and medications: Disorders like Cushing’s syndrome, hyperthyroidism, and digestive problems (e.g., lactose intolerance) can contribute.

Dowvload the pdf

How is osteoporosis diagnosed?

The main test is a bone density scan called DEXA (Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry). It is quick, painless, and very accurate. Another test, QCT (Quantitative CT), can also measure bone density but is less commonly used.

Can osteoporosis be prevented?

Yes. Prevention is the best treatment. Key steps include:

A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
Regular exercise
Avoiding smoking and excess alcohol

What treatments are available?

For people with established osteoporosis, medications can strengthen bones and increase bone density. The most common options are:

Bisphosphonates
Estrogen therapy (used less often now due to side effects)
Parathyroid hormone (Forsteo®)
Denosumab (Prolia®), a monoclonal antibody

Osteoporosis and spinal fractures

Osteoporosis is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. Many patients first discover it after suffering a fracture.

In the U.S., about 24 million people have osteoporosis (10% of the population).
Every year, 700,000 patients develop spinal fractures.
Only 1 in 3 spinal fractures cause noticeable pain, but even painless ones can lead to loss of height, spinal deformity, mobility problems, and reduced quality of life.

Patients with one spinal fracture are 5 times more likely to suffer another.

Symptoms and complications

Kyphosis (hunched back): Caused by multiple spinal fractures, leading to posture changes, breathing problems, digestive issues, and increased risk of more fractures.
Chronic back pain: From repeated micro-fractures or spinal collapse.
Height loss: Both real (shortened vertebrae) and compensatory (bending of hips/knees).
In severe cases, bone fragments may press on the spinal cord, causing neurological problems.

Treatment of spinal fractures

Conservative treatment includes:

Pain management
Braces
Limited bed rest (prolonged immobility worsens osteoporosis)

If pain persists, minimally invasive surgeries such as vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty may be performed. In these procedures, bone cement is injected into the fractured vertebra, stabilizing it and relieving pain.

Important note

Treatment for osteoporosis is lifelong—similar to treatment for high blood pressure. Unfortunately, some dentists stop osteoporosis medications before dental implants, which can dangerously increase the risk of spinal fractures. Any treatment interruption should only be short-term and carefully considered.

In summary

Osteoporosis is common but preventable. With early diagnosis, proper medication, healthy lifestyle changes, and modern surgical options when needed, patients can maintain mobility, reduce fracture risk, and live healthier lives.

Χειρουργός Σπονδυλικής Στήλης

Ο Χειρουργός Σπονδυλικής Στήλης/ Σκολίωσης Δρ. Ηλίας Χαρ. Παπαδόπουλος γεννήθηκε και μεγάλωσε στην Αθήνα. Αποφοίτησε με Άριστα από την Ιατρική Σχολή Αθηνών το 1994 και στη συνέχεια ειδικεύτηκε στην ορθοπαιδική, στην Α’ Ορθοπαιδική Κλινική του Πανεπιστημίου Αθηνών.