OSTEOPOROSIS: FRAGILE & WEAK BONES

The skeletal system is the scaffold of the human body. It provides a rigid structure to our bodies and serves as a protective shell for delicate soft tissues and organs. The skeletal system is a robust collection of bones that are constantly renewed with calcium phosphate.

Some patients experience an excessive decrease in bone density and often develop porous bones prone to fractures and injury. Doctors refer to this condition as Osteoporosis.

CAUSES OF OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis is a metabolic disease of the bones. The commonly known causes of the condition include:

• An imbalance between the formation of new bone and resorption of old bone. This leads to a drop in bone density and increased porosity of the bones.
• Lack of certain hormones, especially estrogen in women and androgen in men, typical in people with aging (for example, hitting menopause in women results in lowered levels of estrogen) can lead to developing osteoporosis.
• Lack of or deficiency of enough calcium in a patient’s diet can lead to insufficient minerals to reinforce the bones. The body may also leech calcium from the bones to maintain healthy blood calcium levels. Similarly, unhealthy diets and acidic foods can also leech calcium from the bones and can lead to osteoporosis.
• Certain diseases and conditions can lead to porosity in bones. For example, thyroid problems, bone cancer, rheumatism and genetic disorders.
• Overuse of corticosteroids.
• A history of osteoporosis in the family.
• Unhealthy lifestyle choices like smoking, heavy alcohol consumption accompanied by a lack of exercise.

OSTEOPOROSIS SYMPTOMS

Osteoporosis is a rather tricky disease to diagnose. The initial symptoms often mask as natural pains and aches due to progressed age. At the onset, there is no pain and hardly any symptoms on the outside. Some of the most commonly associated symptoms with Osteoporosis include:

• Patients often complain of weakness in the back. The feeling is a generalized feel in the entire back and cannot be localized.
• Loss of bone density and developing porous bones that are brittle.
• There is a slight pain in the back in the initial stages of the condition.
• The disease is hard to detect tends to progress. In advanced stages, there is persistent pain in the back, and it begins to spread to other bones through the entire skeletal system.
• There is an increased risk of fractures and injury. Simple activities like everyday movement, heavy sneezing or heavy lifting can lead to a fracture. For example, a vertebral fracture can result in loss of body height or developing a hunched back.
• The psychological impact of Osteoporosis restricts patients from moving too much and can, in turn, lead to a loss in muscle density due to inactivity. The weak muscles further increase the risk of injury, and thus begins a vicious cycle of injury and degeneration.
• Chronic cases of Osteoporosis are very difficult to treat. Loss of bone density is hard to reverse, and it can lead to permanently restricted mobility. There is a significant impact on a patient’s quality of life.

*NOTE: Osteoporosis can lead to porous bones through the body and depending on the area, can lead to developing associated symptoms. For example, the weakness of the rib cage can hamper the functioning of the lungs and result in shortness of breath. The condition also exposes other systems to the possibility of increased pressure, bleeding and inflammation.

It is highly recommended that immediate medical attention be sought at the first sign of symptoms. It is also recommended to conduct tests to diagnose the condition on a regular basis from the age of 50.

DIAGNOSIS OF OSTEOPOROSIS

A complete medical history and physical examination is a good place to start and it gives the medical professional a good idea of the risk factors involved. It is crucial to measure bone density and track it to diagnose Osteoporosis. Doctors achieve this with the so-called T-value by means of imaging technology like X-rays. 

According to the definition of the World Health Organization (WHO), a diagnosis of Osteoporosis can be made if the T-value is at least 2.5 standard deviations below that of a healthy 30-year-old of the same sex. If the measurement results in a T value that is greater than -1, the bone density is in the normal range. If the T-Value lies between -1 and -2.5, doctors may diagnose osteopenia or bone poverty which is a preliminary stage of osteoporosis.

TREATMENT FOR OSTEOPOROSIS

In most cases, treatment for osteoporosis is conservative. An effective guideline includes:

• PRESCRIPTION PAINKILLERS

Patients with Osteoporosis experience pain and discomfort due to the condition. Prescribed painkillers like Ibuprofen can help manage the pain and provide some relief. In cases of significant associated swelling, anti-inflammatory medication is used accordingly.

• PRESCRIBED PHYSIOTHERAPY

Rehabilitation through regular physiotherapy is very important to curb the progression of Osteoporosis and prevent muscle breakdown due to inactivity. Prescribed physiotherapy, with the use of targeted exercise, can help strengthen the muscles that have lost stability. It helps a patient regain mobility and relief from discomfort.

• SURGICAL INTERVENTION

Surgical intervention is necessary in cases where conservative means have failed, and an operation is necessary to relieve symptoms. In cases of severe fracture which is fairly common in patients with advanced cases of osteoporosis, surgery is essential to relieve pain and prevent consequential damage.

It can be advantageous to seek surgery to prevent long periods of recovery time from a fracture and can help prevent loss of muscle. Patients opting for surgery can prevent loss of stability due to prolonged fixation or long periods of being bedridden.

Since surgical operations related to osteoporosis are major interventions, the operations also require the patient to be in good health. The duration of the operation (several hours), medication under anesthesia and heavy bleeding can be too much physical strain, especially for very old people.

Every intervention involves various operational risks. The larger and more complex the operation, the greater the risk of complications.

Osteoporosis can have serious consequences for the bones. It is therefore important to counteract bone loss with preventive measures.

MEDICAL BACK BRACES & SUPPORTS

Medical back orthosis are instrumental in both preventative and treatment of Osteoporosis in the spine. Bauerfeind offers premium braces like the DorsoTrain that provide ample support to the spine and helps keep the upper body upright.

The brace features a plastic rail that can be adjusted to correct posture and encourage healthy proprioception. It can be instrumental in preventing the formation of a rounded back and avoiding serious complications of long term degeneration. 

In more advanced cases, vertebral fractures might result in the development of a rounded back and medical Orthosis like the Spinova Osteo or SofTec Dorso can be a perfect solution. The reinforced aluminum rods provide stability and encourage a healthy body posture.

A tension belt system and a deep seated pelvic support allow the Spinova Osteo to snugly fit the patient’s back and effectively relieve the back of all stress. The brace encourages muscle activation and can greatly reduce discomfort and pain.

The additional support provided to the pelvis, provides stability and can help minimize the risk of falls. The breathable and skin-friendly material makes it perfect for daily use and is highly recommended for a swift recovery.  

Spinal Osteoporosis: Also Known as Osteoarthritis of the Spine

Our skeletal system provides a robust structure that protects our internal organs and soft tissue. Our bones are constantly renewed with calcium phosphate.

However, some patients have an imbalance between the formation of new bones and the resorption of older bones. This condition is referred to as osteoporosis and can lead to weak, fragile and porous bones in the entire skeletal system.

The spine is one of the first areas of the body to be affected by osteoporosis and can lead to intense pain and discomfort for patients. Their mobility is severely restricted and even mild jerks and light loads can lead to developing fractures.

Vertebral fractures can have associated inflammation and lead to changes in the body’s natural posture.  

Causes of Spinal Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a metabolic disease of the bones. The commonly known causes of the condition include:

• An imbalance between the formation of new bone and resorption of old bone. This leads to a drop in bone density and increased porosity of the bones.
• Lack of certain hormones, especially estrogen in women and androgen in men, typical in people with aging (for example, hitting menopause in women results in lowered levels of estrogen) can lead to developing osteoporosis.
• Lack of or deficiency of calcium in a patient’s diet can lead to insufficient minerals to reinforce the bones. The body may also leech calcium from the bones to maintain healthy blood calcium levels. Similarly, unhealthy diets and acidic foods can also leech calcium from the bones and can lead to osteoporosis.
• Certain diseases and genetic conditions can lead to porosity in bones. For example, thyroid problems, bone cancer, rheumatism and genetic disorders.
• Overuse of corticosteroids.
• A history of osteoporosis in the family.
• Unhealthy lifestyle choices like smoking, heavy alcohol consumption accompanied by a lack of exercise.

Spinal Osteoporosis Symptoms

Bone density reduces naturally with age. However, osteoporosis can accelerate that and lead to increased degeneration of bones. Bones become increasingly unstable and can break under the slightest amount of stress.

The spine bears the weight of the head and the upper body and with the onset of osteoporosis, it is typical to develop symptoms of osteoporosis in the spine. Some of the most commonly known symptoms of spinal osteoporosis include:

• Feeling of excruciating pain and irritation in the spine, typically accompanied by a feeling of weakness and instability.
• High likelihood of fractures especially in the vertebrae of the spine. In cases of vertebral fractures, there are visible changes to the natural spine curvature. Affected patients develop rounded backs and a spherical abdomen form.
• As the disease progresses the patient’s body height can be further compromised. Patients appear to become smaller and smaller as more vertebral columns are compromised. People can “shrink” several centimeters.
• Psychologically the pain and the fragility of the spine has a debilitating impact on the mindset of people. Patients tend to avoid movement and over time this leads to muscle breakdown and weakened muscles resulting in instability and insecurity when moving. This creates a vicious cycle that can severely restrict mobility and significantly impact the quality of life.

Diagnosis of Spinal Osteoporosis

A complete medical history and physical examination is a good place to start and it gives the medical professional a good idea of the risk factors involved. It is crucial to measure bone density and track it to diagnose spinal osteoporosis. Doctors achieve this with the so-called T-value by means of sophisticated imaging technology like X-rays. 

According to the definition of the World Health Organization (WHO), a diagnosis of spinal osteoporosis can be made if the T-value is at least 2.5 standard deviations below that of a healthy 30-year-old of the same sex. If the measurement results in a T value that is greater than -1, the bone density is in the normal range. If the T-Value lies between -1 and -2.5, doctors speak of osteopenia or bone poverty. It is a preliminary stage of osteoporosis.

Spinal Osteoporosis Prevention

Spinal Osteoporosis is not curable. However, it is possible to influence the course of the disease favorably and slow its progression with suitable preventive measures and early treatment. Preventive measures should be started at a young age in order to build up bone density as early as possible. This helps to compensate for later bone loss. 

• Physical activity and exercise to strengthen muscles and bones.
• A diet rich in calcium (the main building block of bones) 
• Sufficient Vitamin D (which promotes calcium storage in the bones)
• Avoiding smoking, drinking and maintaining a healthy body weight 

Together these measures can play a vital role in preventing and preparing the body for long term risks of spinal osteoporosis.

Treatment For Spinal Osteoporosis

Treatment for spinal osteoporosis aims at slowing the loss in bone density and promote the reconstruction of bones. Doctors aim to relieve pain and manage the symptoms of osteoporosis. Taking measures to prevent any further risk of developing fractures is crucial. A good treatment guideline includes:

• Lifestyle Changes

Improving lifestyle choices can have a significant improvement on the prognosis of Osteoporosis. Losing weight and avoiding drinking and smoking has proven effective in preventing the onset and progression of the condition. Having a nutritious balanced calcium and vitamin D rich diet is highly effective.

• Prescription Drug Therapy

Patients with spinal osteoporosis experience pain and discomfort due to the condition. Prescribed painkillers like Ibuprofen can help manage the pain and provide some relief. Importantly, painkillers mask the pain without addressing the underlying condition. Additionally, tolerance may occur where the effectiveness of the drugs decrease as well as other potential side effects.

• Prescribed Physiotherapy

Rehabilitation through regular physiotherapy is very important to curb the progression of Osteoporosis and prevent muscle breakdown due to inactivity. Prescribed physiotherapy, with the use of targeted exercise, can help strengthen the muscles that have lost stability. It helps a patient regain mobility and relief from discomfort.

Medical Back Braces & Supports

Medical back orthosis are instrumental in both the preventative and treatment of Osteoporosis in the spine. Bauerfeind offers premium braces like the DorsoTrain that provide ample support to the spine and helps keep the upper body upright.

The brace features a plastic rail that can be adjusted to correct posture and encourage healthy proprioception. It can be instrumental in preventing the formation of a rounded back and avoiding serious complications of long term degeneration. 

In more advanced cases, vertebral fractures might result in the development of a rounded back and medical Orthosis like the Spinova Osteo or SofTec Dorso can be a perfect solution. The reinforced aluminum rods provide stability and encourage a healthy body posture.

A tension belt system and a deep-seated pelvic brace allow the Spinova Osteo to snugly fit the patient’s back and effectively relief the back of all stress. The brace encourages muscle activation and can greatly reduce discomfort and pain.

The additional support provided to the pelvis, provides stability and can help minimize the risk of falls. The breathable and skin-friendly material makes it perfect for daily use and is highly recommended for a swift recovery.  

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease of the skeletal system. Patients suffering from this condition typically have a substantial loss of bone density due to metabolic reasons. The condition disproportionately affects women, especially due to the drop in estrogen after menopause.

Osteoporosis, as the name suggests, is a condition wherein the bones begin to become porous, fragile and brittle. The condition is hard to detect in its initial stages and tends to progress and gets much worse with age.

There is an inherent difference in the rate of formation of new bones and the resorption of old bone. The body makes up by leeching calcium from the bones to maintain blood calcium levels.

In the initial and mild stages of the condition, the patient experiences pain and discomfort in the spine. However, as the condition progresses the entire skeletal system is compromised and there is an increased risk of damage and fractures. A patient’s quality of life is compromised and their mobility is severely restricted.

OSTEOPOROSIS – Consequences for the spine

The spine bears the weight of the head and upper body as the central bony axis of the body. Thus, it is one of the first areas of the body that is affected when a patient suffers from osteoporosis.

The vertebrae become fragile and even minor incidents can lead to fractures. In some cases, the form of the thoracic vertebrae collapses resulting in so-called wedge vertebrae.

Patients tend to develop a prominent forward curvature (a forward bend) called Kyphosis of the thoracic spine. There are significant consequences of Kyphosis including impaired breathing and cardiac activity in the long run.

Orthosis plays a crucial role in stabilizing the compromised spine and providing ample support to ensure a stress-free vertical alignment. The combination of a tension belt system and anatomically shaped adjustable rods together provides robust support to the spinal cord making it easier for patients to stand upright and also alleviates pain and discomfort by relieving the vertebrae.

Back Braces in Conservative-Functional Therapy

Medical orthosis or back braces can be instrumental in all forms of conservative functional therapy. They provide much-needed support and guidance, preventing further damage and curbing the progression of the condition. Back braces are highly recommended to allow for regulated physiotherapy since it encourages health proprioception.

The added stability also has a profound effect on the psychological state of patients. It takes away the danger of unnatural movements or buckling of compromised bones.

The resulting feeling of security, in turn, increases the effectiveness of the physiotherapy exercises and home exercise programs. This enables patients affected by osteoporosis to achieve their important therapy goals.

The orthosis also helps to reduce excessive loads on the leading edges of the vertebrae through active straightening and thus also prevents wedge vertebrae and kyphosis.

Orthosis in Post-Operative Care

In advanced patients with a collapse of fracturing of the vertebral column, surgical intervention might be necessary. Patients can look to radical surgical procedures like Kyphoplasty, Vascularplasty and Elastoplasty to alleviate symptoms and seek relief if all conservative approaches fail.

Surgeons today can surgically correct the curvature of the lumbar spine (Both in cases of forward and backward curvature – Hyperkyphosis and Hyper Lordosis).

A specially formulated bone cement formula is directly injected into the fracture and used effectively as treatment. However, this can apply excess stress on the adjacent spine segments and can lead to connection fractures.

Orthosis can again be instrumental for a patient’s prognosis. The functional unit of the back splint, pelvic bandage and tension belt system relieves the thoracic spine more than a normal corset and ensures an even distribution of force in the affected area.

As a result, the spine can be effectively relieved and stabilized until the bone density has improved with the help of a combination therapy and the orthosis can be gradually removed.

Orthosis Provide Stabilisation and relief of the Spine

Medical back braces like the Spinova Osteo is a valuable treatment tool for patients with osteoporosis. The brace can effectively relieve the back and provide a feeling of stability to the patient.

The brace encourages healthy proprioception and can help the patient maintain an upright posture. The Spinova Osteo helps build strength in the back muscles and facilitates recovery. 

The ergonomically shaped aluminum recliner in the back stabilizes the thoracic and lumbar spine. Together with the pelvic bandage made of airy, breathable mesh material, the recliner forms a functional unit and also supports the transition between the spine and pelvis.

The Spinova Osteo is light and comfortable to wear, adapts to the individual body shape and is hardly visible under clothing due to its construction. As an everyday companion, the Spinova osteoporosis orthosis thus becomes an important component of therapy, exercise and nutrition programs. It effectively supports medication and prevents consequential damage caused by the disease.