Osteoporosis

Approximately six million people in Germany suffer from osteoporosis. This pathological loss of bone mass therefore ranks among the most common widespread diseases. However, early diagnosis and targeted treatment can sustainably alleviate symptoms. Our experienced doctors are here to support you at all our locations.

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Osteoporosis typically begins with osteopenia. This refers to bone loss without resulting fractures. Once bone mass loss leads to fractures, the diagnosis is osteoporosis. Bone loss is monitored, among other methods, using densitometry (bone density measurement).

Proven triggers of osteoporosis include:

• The menopause. Oestrogen deficiency during the climacteric increases the number of osteoclasts (cells that break down bone mass)
• The normal ageing process. Over the years, the body progressively loses osteoblasts (cells that build bone mass)
• Certain medications (such as corticosteroids)
• Metabolic disorders
• Eating disorders
• Genetic predisposition
• Lack of physical activity
• Alcohol

Typical symptoms of osteoporosis include:

• Pathological fractures (in women after the menopause, primarily vertebral fractures; in older individuals, primarily long bones such as those in the legs and arms)
• Pain resulting from fractures (such as back pain)

The first step in the comprehensive treatment of osteoporosis is diagnostics. For us at avi, this encompasses:

• Taking a medical history
• Bone density measurement
• Laboratory tests for early detection of deficiencies (calcium, vitamin D)
• Exclusion of a neoplastic or other serious condition that may be contributing to bone loss

This is followed by targeted therapy, which also has a prophylactic function. This includes:

• Regular physical activity
• A balanced diet and, where appropriate, abstinence from alcohol
• Review of already prescribed medications and adjustment if necessary
• Assessment of fall risk (in older individuals)
• Medications (such as bisphosphonates)