Symptoms of severe osteoporosis

Symptoms of severe osteoporosis include bone pain, shortened height, and significantly increased risk of fractures. You need to seek medical attention promptly and take measures such as medication, lifestyle adjustments, and physical therapy.

1. Bone pain

Patients with severe osteoporosis often feel bone pain, especially in the lower back, hips and limbs. This pain is usually related to thinning of the bone structure and reduced bone density. Osteoporosis causes the bones to be unable to withstand normal pressure, and even slight activities may cause pain. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise and relieve pain through heat, massage and other methods.

2. Shortening of height

Osteoporosis can cause vertebral compression fractures, deforming the spine and resulting in a decrease in height. This change is usually gradual, and patients may notice that their clothes no longer fit or that their posture changes when standing. Preventive measures include back muscle strengthening exercises, such as yoga or Pilates, to enhance spinal support.

3. Significantly increased risk of fractures

Patients with severe osteoporosis have fragile bones, and even a slight fall or collision can lead to fractures, with common fractures in the hip, wrist, and spine. Fractures not only affect the quality of life, but may also cause complications. Patients are advised to make anti-slip modifications to their home environment, such as installing handrails and using anti-slip mats, and to supplement calcium and vitamin D to enhance bone strength.

4. Treatment methods

Drug treatment is the main means of severe osteoporosis. Commonly used drugs include bisphosphonates such as alendronate, calcitonin, and parathyroid hormone analogs such as teriparatide. These drugs can inhibit bone resorption or promote bone formation and increase bone density. The diet should include more foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as milk, fish, and green leafy vegetables. In terms of exercise, low-intensity aerobic exercise, such as walking or swimming, is recommended to strengthen bones and muscles.

Severe osteoporosis is a disease that requires long-term management. Patients should undergo regular bone density checks, take medication as prescribed by their doctor, and adopt a healthy lifestyle to slow disease progression and reduce the risk of fractures.