Health: Osteoporosis

Two years back while walking briskly I tripped and fell on the road, breaking the little finger of the right hand and a rib. I was 72 then. The orthopedist warned me about osteoporosis and how to take preventive care. It appears that no conclusively effective treatment is available to cure this disease.

What is osteoporosis? As far as I can understand, it is a condition where the bones turn brittle or fragile and may break easily. The fractures are usually in the spine, hips and wrists. Osteoporosis could also lead to stooping

What causes osteoporosis? Generally, calcium and Vitamin D deficiency leading to thinning of bones. A bone density test could give an indication of the risk factors. Other causes of the problem include genetic factors, some medicines, lifestyle, certain surgeries and medical conditions.

What are the symptoms? Often, osteoporosis shows no early symptoms and is diagnosed only when a bone is broken. In later stages there could be back pain, stooping (Dowager’s hump), and loss in height.

Who are susceptible? Older people are more likely to have osteoporosis than younger ones. Females, particularly post-menopausal women, seem to have increased susceptibility. This could be partially due to decrease in the body’s oestrogen content.

What can be done? Bone density tests can indicate some therapy, supplements and exercises to fortify the bones. Consult an expert. But there is one action that anyone can take – change in lifestyle.

What changes? Well, it is more or less the same as the recommendations for better health. Don’t smoke; smokers have increased risk of loss of bone density than non- smokers. Moderate drinking is fine but heavy consumption of alcohol retards bone growth and also increases the risk of falling. Exercises like walking and climbing stairs are good (if you have cardiac condition, check with your doctor). Have a balanced diet. Avoid cola based aerated drinks.

And, take care to avoid falls and giving undue pressure on bones.

Please note that these are only a layman’s understanding. Check with your doctor for authoritative directions.

Ends.

Health: Slipped Disc (Prolapsed Disc)

My recent 8-day trip to Kerala was enjoyable, as usual, till I suddenly developed a rather severe pain in the lower back. Like a fool I tried to manage it by applying some painkilling gel to the affected area and went to a specialist only after returning to Chennai yesterday. He confirmed that the problem was Slipped Disc, which is also known as Prolapsed Disc. I decided to write about because somebody might find it useful.

Now, the disc in this context is padding between the vertebrae that encase the spine. It is a cartilage with a gel-like core of connective tissue in the centre. It is a protective buffer and provides flexibility to the spine. Sometimes, with aging, the connective tissues in the core break down and results in bulging. The condition is neither slipping of the disc nor infection. Incorrect posture particularly while lifting weight can trigger off an attack of pain. It seems that in 20% of the cases no outward symptoms are noticeable.

Usually the doctors approach a case of slipped disc conservatively. Surgery is only rarely resorted to. The treatment is a course of medication, mostly painkillers and bed rest. In my case the doctor has not recommended traction. After four days of medication I have to undergo physiotherapy.

The diagnostic procedure normally involves a scan. I think the doctor’s clinical judgment is sufficient but the scan is done to protect the doctor from legal problems that may sometimes come up. In my case the doctor asked me whether I want a scan done immediately or wait and watch for a week. I decided to wait.

It seems that taking painkiller tablets only when a bout of pain comes is not advisable. It is better to have them at regular prescribed intervals. Avoid bending down and awkward postures. If you need to pick something from the floor, ask someone else to do that for you or do it yourself by bending at the knees. No sitting at one stretch for more than thirty minutes. I am typing this post with a break in between writing. Don’t lift weights. To prevent recurring bouts of slipped disc, regular walking is recommended.

You must please appreciate that this is only a layman’s understanding of the Slipped Disc problem. It is always safer to consult a specialist.

Ends.

Also see:

Health: Slipped Disc (Prolapsed Disc) - a personal...

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