Osteoporosis, also known as the “silent thief of bones” is a progressive bone disease. The incidence of osteoporosis increases with the advancing age and is more commonly observed in women. It is characterized by decreased bone density and mass which makes the bone fragile, simultaneously making them more susceptible to fractures.

According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), one in three women and one in five men over 50 are likely to suffer from an osteoporosis related fracture.

Understanding Bone Health

Bones are the living tissue that continuously remodel to provide structural and functional support to our body. During childhood and early adulthood, the process of bone mass formation rapidly takes place with simultaneous decrease in the process of resorption. This leads to peak bone mass in the late 20s. However, as aging progresses, bone resorption exceeds formation thereby increasing the risk of osteoporosis.

Causes and Risk Factors

There are several modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors that contribute to osteoporosis in varying degrees.

• Modifiable Risk Factors

These are the ones which can be modified to a certain extent by lifestyle changes thereby preventing osteoporosis. These include:

Dietary Deficiencies – Inadequate consumption or defective absorption of Calcium and Vitamin D impairs the bone strength.

Sedentary Lifestyle – Physical inactivity especially lack of weight bearing exercises weakens the bones.

Smoking and Alcohol consumption directly accelerate bone resorption.

Chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and prolonged corticosteroid use increases the risk of fracture due to increased bone fragility.

• Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

Age – Risk of osteoporosis increases with advancing age, especially after 50.

Gender – Women are more prone due to comparatively lower bone mass and post-menopausal hormonal changes.

Genetics – A family history of osteoporosis increases the susceptibility for the same.

Signs and Symptoms

In majority of the cases, Osteoporosis remain asymptomatic until a fracture occurs. Commonly observed fractures include that of spine, hip and wrist. Persistent back pain is a characteristic symptom of osteoporosis frequently causing restriction of movement.

Signs of advanced osteoporosis include loss of height over the time, which is considered to be the hallmark sign of spinal framework degeneration. Other signs include stooped posture or kyphosis and frequent fractures with minimal trauma.

Diagnostic Tests

DEXA Scan (Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) is a Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Test that is considered to be a gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis.

Other supportive tests include blood tests for Vitamin D and Calcium deficiency.

X-Rays to suspect for any fractures.

Prevention and Treatment

1. Nutrition – Maintaining adequate intake of Calcium and Vitamin D is essential for bone health. Recommended daily intake of calcium in adults is 1,000-1,200 mg. Dairy products, green leafy vegetables and fortified foods are a good source of calcium. Vitamin D also known as cholecalciferol is essential for adequate calcium absorption. Sunlight is the best source of Vitamin D however in severe deficiencies, supplements can help.
2. Exercise – Regular weight bearing activities like walking, jogging and dancing strengthens the bones. Resistance training like weight lifting improves the bone density. Yoga improves the overall balance of the body and reduces the risk of fall.
3. Lifestyle modifications like quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption reduces the process of bone resorption. Supportive footwear and home safety measures can also prevent falls.
4. While conventional medicines offer treatments like corticosteroid and hormone replacement therapy, many people seek gentler, holistic alternatives like homoeopathy. Homeopathic medicines focus on stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, improving calcium absorption and enhancing the bone strength.

Homeopathy and bone health

Homeopathic medicines work on the principle of “like cures like” and activate the body’s self-healing abilities. In osteoporosis, homeopathy aims to provide relief by enhancing the calcium metabolism, strengthening the bones and joints, reducing pain & risk of fracture, thereby improving the overall vitality and resilience.

Key homeopathic medicines for osteoporosis are:

1. Calcarea Carbonica – It is best suited for overweight and chilly individuals who are prone to fatigue and excessive sweating due to sluggish metabolism and poor calcium absorption.
2. Symphytum Officinale – It is commonly known as “bone-knit” remedy as it accelerates healing of fractures. It acts best in cases of bone pain and soreness and osteoporosis in patients recovering from fractures.
3. Silicea – It enhances the calcium absorption and collagen formation for bone strength and is therefore suitable for delicate, thin and debilitated individuals with brittle bones. It is also helpful in slow-healing fractures and osteoporosis-related weakness.
4. Calcarea Phosphorica – It is ideal for children, adolescents and elderly individuals with weak bones. It is a mineral remedy that supports bone mineralization and growth. It is helpful in cases of osteoporosis with back pain and stiffness.
5. Phosphorus – It is especially effective for individuals with a history of fractures and fragile bones. It helps in cases of osteoporosis associated with nervous weakness and in those having a tendency to easy bleeding and bruising.
6. Ruta Graveolens – Helpful in osteoporosis with joint pain and stiffness. It strengthens the tendons, ligaments and periosteum thereby aiding in recovery from fractures and bone injuries.
7. Natrum Muriaticum – This remedy is suitable for preventing premature bone loss in individuals with back pain and spinal weakness by strengthening bones. It is indicated in those with excessive salt cravings and d3ehydration issues.

Conclusion

Homeopathic medicines provide a natural, individualized approach to osteoporosis by focusing on the long term bone health and overall well-being. Though early intervention and a holistic treatment can significantly reduce osteoporosis risks and enhance quality of life, however it is essential to consult a qualified homeopathic practitioner for personalized guidance.