Osteoporosis and the importance of timely diagnosis

Osteoporosis or osteoporosis is a common bone disease that occurs with a decrease in mineral density and bone mass, especially in important areas such as the spine, back, and hips. This decrease in density can make bones weak and brittle over time and increase the possibility of bone fractures. The importance of early diagnosis of this disease is that its progress can be prevented with medical interventions and lifestyle changes. The initial stage of this condition is known as **osteopenia** and it can be prevented from turning into complete osteoporosis with timely diagnosis. **Osteoporosis symptoms and diagnosis methods** Osteoporosis often has no obvious symptoms and is therefore known as the "silent disease", but some symptoms that may indicate the disease include: - **Reduction of bone density:** This reduction is clearly seen in radiology images and bone scans. - **Deep and vague pains:** Unexplained and chronic pains in the skeletal areas, especially in the back and hip areas, can be one of the primary symptoms. - **Short stature:** One of the advanced signs of osteoporosis is a decrease in height due to the collapse of the vertebrae of the spine. - **Frequent fractures:** Weaker bones are more prone to fractures, especially after minor falls or even minor trauma. ### **Bone density test (BMD)** One of the most accurate methods for diagnosing osteoporosis is to perform **bone density measurement (BMD)**. Using imaging technologies such as DXA or DEXA, this test helps doctors measure your bone density and assess your risk of fractures. It is recommended that people who are over 50 years old, especially women after menopause, do this test every 2 to 5 years to be aware of the condition of their bones. ### **Does physiotherapy help to treat osteoporosis?** Yes, physical therapy is one of the most effective ways to manage and prevent osteoporosis. Regular exercise under the supervision of physical therapists can help strengthen muscles, improve balance, and prevent falls, thereby preventing osteoporosis-related fractures. By evaluating each person's skeletal and muscular condition, physiotherapists design suitable and customized exercise programs for each patient. These programs include strength, endurance and balance exercises that help maintain muscle and bone mass. **Magnetic therapy and drug supplements for the treatment of osteoporosis** Another complementary method to improve bone density is **magnetotherapy**. This non-invasive method using magnetic fields stimulates biological processes in the body and can help improve bone density and accelerate their regeneration process. In addition to magnetotherapy, the use of medicinal supplements also plays an important role in maintaining bone health. Important medicinal supplements: - **Vitamin D:** This vitamin increases calcium absorption in the body and plays a key role in maintaining bone density. - **Calcium:** As one of the main minerals in the bone structure, it is very important to consume enough calcium through food or supplements. - **Magnesium and vitamin K:** These two elements are also directly effective in bone health and are usually recommended to patients as supplements. Healthy eating is also part of the treatment. Consuming calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, dark green vegetables such as spinach, and nuts can help improve bone health. ### **Services of Tuan Novin Physiotherapy Center** At Tuan Navin Physiotherapy Center, under the supervision of prominent specialist **Dr. Noushin Alvandian**, comprehensive and specialized osteoporosis diagnosis, prevention and treatment services are provided. This center helps to improve your skeletal condition and bone density by using advanced technologies such as magnet therapy and customized exercise programs. In addition, nutritional counseling and recommendations regarding the use of supplements are also provided in this center to maintain bone health. #### **Frequently Asked Questions** **1. What is osteoporosis and how is it diagnosed?** Osteoporosis is a disease that reduces the density and strength of bones. This condition is usually diagnosed through a bone mineral density (BMD) test and clinical symptoms such as skeletal pain and frequent fractures. **2. Does physical therapy help prevent osteoporosis?** Yes, regular exercise under the supervision of a physiotherapist can help strengthen muscles, improve balance and bone strength, and prevent the development of osteoporosis. **3. What supplements are recommended for the treatment of osteoporosis?** Vitamin D and calcium supplements are among the most important supplements that help maintain bone health. Also, the use of vitamin K and magnesium can also be effective.