Early Warning Signs of Osteoporosis

While osteoporosis is often considered a silent disease, there are several warning signs to watch out for. By catching this condition early, you take steps to prevent severe side effects down the line. If you have experienced these signs, contact the rheumatologists at AOTC for an individualized treatment plan designed to protect you.

Early Warning Signs of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes the bones to become weak and brittle, making them more prone to fractures. While it may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, here are the subtle warning signs to look out for:

Recurring Back Pain or Aches

Chronic or recurring back pain or aches, especially in the mid back,can be a warning sign of osteoporosis. Compression fractures of the spine, which are common in osteoporosis, can cause pain that worsens with movement or pressure on the spine.

Loss of Height

A gradual loss of height may be an early sign of osteoporosis. As the bones weaken and fracture, it can cause a decrease in height over time. If you notice that you are getting shorter or your clothes fit differently, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.

Rounded Shoulders or Stooped Posture

Osteoporosis can affect the spine’s shape, leading to rounded shoulders or a stooped posture. This can occur due to compression fractures in the vertebrae, which cause the spine to collapse and alter its normal alignment.

Can Osteoporosis Make You Feel Tired?

There is some discussion over whether osteoporosis can cause fatigue, and this is a common question we hear from many of our patients. It’s not clear why people with osteoporosis may experience fatigue, but it could be because your body is lacking in vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency can contribute to both poor bone health and make you feel tired. 

Another connection may be between certain medications taken for osteoporosis. If you are experiencing fatigue as a side effect of your prescription, our rheumatology doctors can help find an alternative treatment plan. 

Can Osteoporosis Be Reversed?

Osteoporosis cannot be reversed. However, if caught early enough, there are ways to counteract it and slow the progression. That’s why being aware of the early warning signs is so important. That said, the best way to stop the effects of the condition and protect your bone health is through prevention.

No matter what your age, there are steps you can take to help prevent osteoporosis and improve your bone density. These include eating a healthy diet rich in calcium, vitamin D and antioxidants. Stay active and mobile with activities like walking, exercising, gardening and yoga. Finally, limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking.

What Doctor Treats Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis can be treated by rheumatologists, which are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the bones, joints, and muscles. 

They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a medical history, physical examination, and bone density testing, to diagnose osteoporosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Infusion Treatment for Osteoporosis

Intravenous infusion therapy, or IV infusion, is a treatment option for osteoporosis where medication is administered directly into the bloodstream through a vein. This can be done in a clinic or hospital setting and may be recommended for individuals who cannot tolerate oral medications or have severe osteoporosis. Infusions for osteoporosis may include medications that can help to increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. There are some self-injectables that can be taken by patients at home. Other injections are given in a doctor’s office monthly or every 6 months.

Our rheumatology doctors will customize the frequency and duration of the treatments based on your individual condition. We’ll also discuss the risks and benefits of the treatment with you to determine whether infusion is right for you. 

Schedule an Appointment at Our Orange Park Office in Jacksonville, FL

At AOTC, our experienced providers are committed to providing you with the personalized care you deserve. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of osteoporosis, schedule an appointment today to receive treatment as soon as possible from our dedicated rheumatologists.