Osteoporosis

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You are concerned about your risk factors for osteoporosis.
You are experiencing any symptoms of osteoporosis
You experience a sudden and severe back pain, especially after a fall or injury. This could be a sign of a fractured vertebra.
You experience any other injuries or fractures, even from minor falls. This could indicate weakened bones and a higher risk of future fractures.

Information

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You are concerned about your risk factors for osteoporosis.
You are experiencing any symptoms of osteoporosis
You experience a sudden and severe back pain, especially after a fall or injury. This could be a sign of a fractured vertebra.
You experience any other injuries or fractures, even from minor falls. This could indicate weakened bones and a higher risk of future fractures.

Do’s:

Get screened for osteoporosis: If you're at risk, talk to your doctor about a bone density scan (DEXA scan) to assess your bone health.
Maintain a calcium and vitamin D rich diet: Include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods in your diet. Consider vitamin D supplements if needed.
Engage in weight-bearing exercise: Activities like walking, jogging, dancing, and strength training can help build and maintain bone density.
Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight can put additional stress on your bones, while being underweight can decrease bone density.
Quit smoking: Smoking weakens bones and increases fracture risk.
Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can interfere with calcium absorption and weaken bones.
Talk to your doctor about medications: If you take medications that increase osteoporosis risk, discuss alternative options or strategies to manage bone health.
Practice fall prevention: Make your home environment safer by installing grab bars, improving lighting, and removing tripping hazards.
Wear proper footwear: Choose shoes with good arch support and non-slip soles to reduce the risk of falls.
Maintain good posture: Stand tall and keep your shoulders back to help prevent slouching, which can put stress on your spine.

Don'ts:

Ignore your risk factors: Don't dismiss your risk of osteoporosis based on feeling well. Early intervention is crucial.
Neglect weight-bearing exercise: While all exercise is beneficial, weight-bearing activities are particularly important for bone health.
Rely solely on calcium supplements: Aim for a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D before relying solely on supplements.
Discontinue medication without consulting your doctor: Certain medications, even if they have some risks, might be crucial for your overall health. Talk to your doctor before stopping any medication.
Consume excessive caffeine: While moderate caffeine intake is generally safe, very high intake can interfere with calcium absorption.
Use tobacco products: Smoking significantly weakens bones and increases fracture risk.
Drink excessive alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with calcium absorption and weaken bones.

Possible Questions:

Do you have any personal or family history of osteoporosis?
Have you ever experienced any fractures, especially fragility fractures (fractures from minor falls or bumps)?
Do you have any underlying medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, or hormonal disorders?
Are you currently taking any medications, including steroids or antidepressants?
What is your typical diet? Do you consume enough calcium and vitamin D-rich foods?
Do you smoke cigarettes or use other tobacco products?
Do you drink alcohol regularly? If so, how much?
What is your typical level of physical activity?
Have you noticed any recent changes in your height or posture?
Are you experiencing any back pain or discomfort?

1.Symptoms

Are there any warning signs of osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis itself often doesn't cause symptoms until a fracture occurs. However, some risk factors can indicate a predisposition to osteoporosis, such as:

A family history of osteoporosis
Previous bone fractures as an adult (especially of the hip, spine, or wrist)
Certain medical conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease)
Long-term use of certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids)

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

Should I get checked for osteoporosis if I have some risk factors?

If you have any risk factors for osteoporosis, consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial. Early detection is essential for preventing fractures.

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

2.Diagnosis

How is osteoporosis diagnosed at LIPS?

Our specialists diagnose osteoporosis using advanced techniques. This may involve:

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan: This painless scan measures bone mineral density to diagnose osteoporosis and assess fracture risk.
Medical history and risk factor assessment

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

What can I expect during an osteoporosis consultation at LIPS?

During your consultation, our team will discuss your medical history, risk factors, and any concerns you may have. They will explain the DXA scan and other diagnostic tools and answer your questions about osteoporosis diagnosis.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

How long does it take to see results from osteoporosis treatment?

The timeframe for seeing results varies depending on the severity of osteoporosis and the treatment approach. However, bone mineral density can start to improve within months of starting treatment.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

3.Treatment

What treatment options are available for osteoporosis at LIPS?

LIPS offers personalised treatment plans to manage osteoporosis and prevent fractures. This may include:

Medication: Various medications can help increase bone mineral density and reduce fracture risk.
Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercise, and avoiding smoking are crucial for bone health.
Physical therapy: Exercises can improve balance and strength to reduce the risk of falls and fractures.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

4.Insurance

At LIPS we work with a wide range of insurance providers. Our dedicated team can assist you in verifying your coverage and understanding any associated costs for osteoporosis diagnosis and treatment.

Do you accept my insurance plan?

Please don't hesitate to inquire about your specific insurance plan. We can help you navigate the insurance process and ensure you receive the best possible care to manage your bone health.

How does LIPS work with the National Health Service?

Our goal is to give you answers as quickly as possible and get you on the right treatment path fast – no strings attached. When you come to us, you will be seen by a qualified specialist who can determine if your situation is serious or not that same day. We don’t want you to wait weeks on end for an appointment because every minute counts when it comes to something as important as your health. If your situation is serious, our specialist will write to your doctor on the NHS advising them that you need an urgent appointment.