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• Overview of treatment options
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• Drug treatment options
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Overview of treatment options

Prescribed drug treatment from your doctor

In addition to recommending lifestyle changes, doctors may prescribe drug therapy if osteoporosis is diagnosed. It is possible to maintain bone density and to reduce the risk of having fractures.

Calcium and vitamin D supplements

Calcium and vitamin D supplements are also usually recommended, to ensure adequate intake, and to ensure maximum effectiveness of the drug therapy. Sufficient calcium, vitamin D and protein intake not only help to prevent osteoporosis, they are also important in helping to maintain bone density and muscle function in patients diagnosed with osteoporosis. Calcium and vitamin D supplements are especially important for individuals at high risk of fracture.

Non-pharmacological therapies

Nutrition and lifestyle play an important role in osteoporosis prevention and treatment. Other factors, like fall prevention techniques or hip protectors to reduce the impact in case of a fall, are also important.

Exercise

Physical activity plays an important part in building bone mass in childhood and adolescence, and continues to be important as we age to maintain bone mass. Regular weight-bearing exercise is important because when force is placed on our bones, the bones react by increasing in mass in order to spread the force over a larger amount of bone. Stronger muscles built through exercise contribute to better balance and agility, which can help in fall prevention. The type of exercise should be tailored to the individual's needs and abilities. People with osteoporosis must take special care when exercising to reduce the risk of fracture due to impact or falls.

Psychological and practical support

Rehabilitation following fractures, strategies for the prevention of falls, and psychological and practical support are important components of treatment. In addition to the practical help offered by osteoporosis patient support groups, these groups can also provide an opportunity to discuss and share the feelings of isolation and depression experienced by many patients.