What is the problem? 

Osteoporosis mainly affects women. They make up 80 % of those affected. Men generally have stronger bones whose density remains more stable. When the bone density changes, the bones become porous and unstable and can break at the slightest exertion. The disease often progresses without symptoms or pain and is characterized by sudden and unexpected bone fractures. It is therefore essential to prevent this disease.

It is the bones and teeth that contain the majority of calcium. Bones are constantly regenerating, losing cells and forming new ones. As the bones grow, they rely on calcium as a structural material to build up the correct bone density. As we age, there is a loss of bone mass as the amount of cells lost is greater than the amount of new cells formed.

What are the reasons for this?

Sex hormones play an important role in these processes, which is why post-menopausal women are particularly frequently affected. Lack of exercise, prolonged intake of certain medications such as cortisone and a diet low in calcium and vitamin D are also risk factors for osteoporosis.

What solutions are available?

Regular physical activity stimulates bone metabolism and strengthens the bones. Bone metabolism is most strongly stimulated when the skeleton is stressed while standing. You should therefore give preference to sports such as walking, hiking and Nordic walking.

Treatment with female sex hormones is mainly used without mild forms of osteoporosis or osteopenia, the precursor of osteoporosis. In the case of premature or normal menopause, oestrogen can compensate for the hormone deficiency and the loss of bone mineral density. 

Several studies have shown the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in reducing the incidence of osteoporotic fractures. Do not hesitate to discuss this with your doctor or gynecologist. Bone densitometry is a medical examination that can be used to detect bone loss.

Calcium and vitamin D are essential for the mineralization of bones. While calcium is an essential component of the bones, vitamin D ensures that the calcium is stored in the bones. For this reason, drug combinations with calcium and vitamin D3 have become established in the basic treatment of osteoporosis. The prescribed doses vary depending on the patient's age, gender and lifestyle.