Back pain is one of the most common health problems worldwide and can affect people of all ages. One of the less discussed, but extremely important causes of back pain is osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a chronic condition characterized by a decrease in bone mass and alteration of bone microarchitecture, making bones more fragile and susceptible to fracture.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a disease that mainly affects women after menopause, but it can also affect men and younger people. It is characterized by low bone density and impaired bone structure, which increases the risk of fractures. The spine is one of the areas of the body that is often affected by osteoporosis, leading to pain and other complications.
Osteoporosis and back pain
Back pain due to osteoporosis can be caused by several factors, which include:
Spinal fractures: The vertebrae are the bones that make up the spine and provide structural support to the body. In osteoporosis, a decrease in bone density makes the vertebrae more fragile and prone to fractures. These fractures are often referred to as “compression fractures” because the vertebra literally compresses or collapses. Even a small strain or a simple movement, such as bending or lifting an object, can cause such a fracture. Symptoms include severe back pain that can occur suddenly or worsen over time, as well as limited mobility and difficulty with daily activities.
Spinal changes: Spinal deformities associated with osteoporosis, such as kyphosis, are caused by multiple vertebral fractures and the resulting collapse of vertebrae. Kyphosis is a condition where the spine curves forward, creating a hump in the upper back. This deformity can cause chronic pain due to the unusual distribution of loads on the spine and the constant tension on the muscles and ligaments. In addition, kyphosis can limit breathing ability and affect quality of life.
Arthritis and muscle strain: Deterioration of bone density from osteoporosis can lead to instability in the spine, causing excessive stress on the joints and muscles around it. This pressure can lead to arthritis, an inflammatory condition of the joints that causes pain, swelling and stiffness. In addition, back muscles can become strained as they try to compensate for weakness in the spine, leading to muscle spasms and chronic pain.
Treating and managing pain
Management of back pain associated with osteoporosis requires a multidimensional approach. Treatment options include:
Pharmacotherapy: Pharmacotherapy for osteoporosis includes several medications aimed at increasing bone mass and reducing the risk of fractures. Diphosphonates, hormone replacement and anabolic drugs are some of the options that may be suggested by the doctor.
There are several options that aim to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and increase the risk of fractures.
Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy can help reduce pain and improve mobility. Specific strengthening and flexibility exercises can support the spine and reduce strain on the joints. Can help reduce stress on the joints.
Osteogenic loading: Strengthen the muscles and bones that support the spine, reducing stress on the joints. Musculoskeletal physiotherapy through the osteogenic loading method offered at OsteoStrong centers is an excellent addition to treating back pain, good posture and improving our overall health. Through 4 specialized machines, OsteoStrong’s Spectrum system enhances the body’s resilience and flexibility, while helping to address imbalance and pain by supporting the strengthening of joint strength through adjustments to the tendons, ligaments and muscles surrounding the joints. This adaptation also increases agility and balance, significantly reducing the risk of falling and significantly reducing joint pain
Balance exercises: Improve mobility and posture, reducing the risk of falls and fractures.
Thermotherapy and electromagnetic field therapy: Can be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Surgery: In severe cases of vertebral fractures, surgery may be required to repair the spine and relieve pain. These procedures include vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty.
These procedures include vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty.
Prevention of osteoporosis
Prevention of osteoporosis is critical to reducing the risk of back pain. Some steps that can help include:
Healthy diet: Proper nutrition and lifestyle changes can also help manage osteoporosis and associated back pain. Getting enough calcium and vitamin D, avoiding smoking and reducing alcohol consumption are important factors. Eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D is essential for maintaining bone health. Dairy products, bone-in fish, green leafy vegetables and fortified foods are good sources.
Physical exercise: Regular exercise that includes weights and resistance exercises helps strengthen bones and muscles. Yoga and walking are also good options for improving balance and flexibility.
Risk avoidance: Avoiding situations that can lead to falls and injuries is vital. The use of walking aids and careful design of the home environment can reduce risk.
Back pain can be an important indicator of the presence of osteoporosis, especially in older people. It is important to be recognized early and treated appropriately to prevent serious complications. Prevention and early diagnosis of osteoporosis, combined with proper treatment and adopting a healthy lifestyle, can make a significant contribution to improving quality of life and reducing back pain.
