Osteoporosis is linked to many diseases, particularly those affecting hormones, digestion, and inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis), diabetes, thyroid/parathyroid issues, chronic kidney/liver disease, multiple myeloma, anorexia nervosa, and certain cancers, often due to low hormone levels (estrogen/testosterone) or issues with nutrient absorption, alongside long-term use of medications like corticosteroids.
Bone pain in your legs can result from injuries or conditions such as osteoporosis, bone bruises, or infections. Knowing the cause is key since it influences treatment options, which can range from simple at-home care to a healthcare provider's care. Seek immediate care for a sudden injury.
The risk of osteoporosis is higher in people who have certain medical conditions, including:
Osteoporosis can lead to back pain due to bones in the vertebra weakening and compressing, leading to a variety of possible symptoms and pain. Osteoporosis is more common as we age; it is closely linked to changes in hormone levels, which can be after menopause in women, or caused by low testosterone in men.
Osteoporosis is called a “silent” disease” because there are typically no symptoms until a bone is broken. Symptoms of vertebral (spine) fracture include severe back pain, loss of height, or spine malformations such as a stooped or hunched posture (kyphosis).
If your pain is severe, you might be prescribed a strong pain-relieving medication such as morphine. This can be taken as slow release tablets, liquid preparations or as a medicated skin patch. Once the pain eases, you may be able to change to a milder drug, such as Co-codamol or Tramadol.
If you have osteoporosis, don't do the following types of exercises: High-impact exercises. Activities such as jumping, running or jogging can lead to fractures in weakened bones. Avoid jerky, rapid movements in general.
The fastest way to increase bone density involves a combination of high-impact weight-bearing exercises, resistance training, and ensuring adequate intake of calcium and Vitamin D, coupled with lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and moderating alcohol, as bones respond best to stress, nutrients, and a healthy environment to rebuild and strengthen. Focus on progressive overload in your workouts and consult a doctor before starting.
Endocrinologists treat the endocrine system, which includes the glands and hormones that help control the body's metabolic activity. In addition to osteoporosis, conditions often treated by endocrinologists include diabetes, thyroid disorders and pituitary diseases.
The stage before osteoporosis is called osteopenia. This is when a bone density scan shows you have lower bone density than the average for your age, but not low enough to be classed as osteoporosis. Osteopenia does not always lead to osteoporosis.
Another common osteoporosis medicine is denosumab (Prolia). Unrelated to bisphosphonates, denosumab might be used in people who can't take a bisphosphonate or did not tolerate one, such as some people with reduced kidney function. Denosumab is delivered by injections, just under the skin, every six months.
Osteoporosis stage 4
This is the most severe form of osteoporosis, and it's the only stage where you may physically notice bone loss in your general appearance. Softer and weaker bones can show in the form of a bent-over appearance and pain with daily activities.
Certain foods can negatively impact bone health and contribute to the risk of osteoporosis. The seven worst foods for osteoporosis include excessive salt, caffeine, soft drinks, alcohol, high-protein diets, processed foods, and foods high in oxalates.
Regular exercise is essential. Adults aged 19 to 64 should do at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as cycling or fast walking, every week. Weight-bearing exercise and resistance exercise are particularly important for improving bone density and helping to prevent osteoporosis.
Drinking OJ with your morning breakfast can be beneficial for strengthening your bones. Most brands add nutrients like calcium and vitamin D to give it a boost. Check your grocery store for orange juice fortified with these added vitamins and minerals.
To increase bone density, focus on weight-bearing impact exercises (like jogging, jumping rope, dancing) and resistance training (like squats, lunges, lifting weights) to stimulate bone growth; balance training (Tai Chi, single-leg stands) also helps prevent falls, says the Royal Osteoporosis Society, Mayo Clinic, and Healthy Bones Australia.
Our specialist nurses suggest that when you're lying in bed, if you're on your side, a pillow in the small of the back and one between your legs can help ease pain. Or if you're lying on your back, a pillow under the crooks of your knees may help to ease discomfort. V-shaped pillows can be used to support your neck.
Weight-bearing and resistance exercises have many benefits. These are good activities to help with bone strength. Walking 3 to 5 miles a week can help build your bone health. For your overall health, most experts recommend that everyone get a total of 30 minutes each day, 5 to 7 days a week.
If you have osteoporosis or have broken bones in the spine, you should avoid exercises that involve bending over from the waist. Some examples of movements you should NOT do include toe touches, abdominal crunches and sit-ups (see images below).
EVENITY is a one-of-a-kind osteoporosis treatment—the first and only one that works both ways by building new bone and helping to slow bone loss.
Many drugs alter the coupled cellular responses of osteoclasts and osteoblasts, leading to clinically evident osteopenia or osteoporosis.
If the more common treatments for osteoporosis don't work well enough, your healthcare professional might suggest trying: Teriparatide (Bonsity, Forteo). This powerful medicine is similar to parathyroid hormone and stimulates new bone growth. It's given by daily injection under the skin for up to two years.