Treatment for osteoporosis aims to increase bone mass and reduce the risk of fractures. How to take care of your bones is an article co-authored by two experts – a dietitian and a doctor-researcher – to make you aware of the role that the health of your bones and muscles plays in your well-being!

By Roxanne Bennett, DtP MScA and Suzanne Morin, M.D. MSc.

Taking charge of your bone health: From prevention to treatment

The type of treatment recommended by your healthcare professional will depend on your level of risk as well as your medical profile. For some, the approach will be limited to adapting their lifestyle while others will be advised to start medical treatment.

Your lifestyle

Among the recommended lifestyle habits, physical activity has considerable benefits in preserving bone mass as well as reducing the risk of falls. Muscle resistance exercises, such as weight lifting, are especially important since they can increase bone density. It is recommended to do this type of exercise at least twice a week. Other types of physical activity, such as aerobic or balance exercise, benefit overall health and help reduce the risk of falling. The Osteoporosis Canada website provides detailed advice that can guide you.

A healthy, balanced diet is also important for bone health, as it allows the body to function at its full potential. Certain nutrients are particularly important in maintaining bone health: protein, calcium and vitamin D. To learn more about diet and bone health, see our article.

Finally, it is advisable to respect the alcohol limits provided by Éduc’Alcool and for smokers, to consider quitting smoking.

Medication

Depending on your level of risk, your doctor may suggest that you start the medication to increase or preserve your bone density. There are a variety of medications for osteoporosis, most of which are widely used and well tolerated. The decision on the medication will be made jointly with your doctor to take into account your needs and preferences.

Among the most commonly prescribed products are bisphosphonates (e.g. Actonel , Fosamax ), tablets taken once a week. Other treatments exist in the form of injections administered under the skin such as denosumab ( Prolia ) or intravenously intermittently. Once you start osteoporosis medication, your doctor will monitor your bone density and the presence of side effects in order to adjust or switch treatment as needed.

In some, treatment may be stopped after a few years when the risk of fracture improves. The most important element in the effectiveness of medication for osteoporosis is compliance, that is, taking the product as prescribed. It is for this reason that it is essential to openly discuss your preferences and tolerance to the medicine with your doctor throughout treatment so that you can fully benefit from your daily life while avoiding fractures.

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Take the time to visit each of our pages on this website, as well as our YouTube channel, in order to get familiar with the disease with our expert lectures, our section on available resources, the support that is offered to you.

Do you have any questions or concerns? Above all, do not hesitate. Contact us at 1 855 899-2873 to discuss with a nurse specializing in uro-oncology. It’s simple and free, like all our services.

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