Bones are the rigid but most important organs of the human body. They support different organs and also produce red and white blood cells and store minerals which are required by the body. The 206 bones of an adult body provide a defined structure and help in our movements.

Old age is accompanied with many health problems which vary from person to person. Most commonly found health problem among the elderly is Osteoporosis. It is found in both women and men in the ratio of 2:1. Most of the times we may not even realize the onset of osteoporosis in our lives.

Osteoporosis is a condition of bones in which the bone loses its density and become porous. In such a condition the bone loses its strength and become very fragile and is vulnerable to fractures. Bone is composed of collagen, protein and calcium that provide strength, however as we grow older our bone goes through some wear and tear. Cracking, fracture or compression of bones becomes easier once they become porous.

What are the signs and symptoms of osteoporosis? Who are susceptible to this?

Osteoporosis itself does not have any symptoms. Basically we are clueless about the onset of this condition and may not realize about the problem until we have a fracture.

Women over the age of 50 and men over the age of 70 are highly susceptible to this condition.

Repeated fractures of the spine due to osteoporosis may result in loss of height or curving of the spine. Once a person has the spine fracture they have to be extra careful and approach the doctor immediately as it calls for medical intervention. Among women chances of such fractures are high after menopause as the estrogen hormones required to maintain the bone strength reduces.

If any of the fractured piece of bone shift near to the spinal cord or if it is pinching the spinal cord it is considered an emergency as this may lead to paralysis of legs. Such a situation forces us to approach an efficient neurosurgeon who can find solution to your problems. Dr. Gupte’s Spine & Brain Clinic with its eminent and highly qualified and skilled neurologists and neurosurgeons has expertise in handling such critical conditions with confidence.

Though this condition can be altered or controlled with a lifestyle change like quitting smoking and alcohol and taking medications to stop the bone loss and increase bone formation, some critical conditions call for surgery called vertebroplasty. Our skeletal system being the main target of osteoporosis  it becomes absolutely necessary for us to have a balanced diet and lead a healthy life.