Dr Prashant Tejwani
Consultant Orthopaedics and Limb Reconstruction
Sparsh Hospital
Osteoporosis affects women mostly. Women in the age of 41-60 and above 60 are at the risk of getting osteoporosis. Many women today have osteoporosis complaints. But at the same time, they are not aware of the risks involved in it. Lack of calcium and especially vitamin D is considered as the main reason for this condition. Hence it is important to combat Vitamin D deficiency to overcome the risk of osteoporosis. Dr Prashant Tejwani, Consultant Orthopaedics and Limb Reconstruction at Sparsh Hospitals, Bengaluru, in an interview with the THP team explains how osteoporosis affects women and how can one combat by getting sufficient Vitamin D.
Edited Excerpts:
Why osteoporosis affects women the most?
Osteoporosis is more common in women mostly in menopausal phase. There are hormonal changes which have negative impact on bones and as menopausal symptoms involve gain in weight, it is common practice to cut down on milk and milk product and it further adds to weakness of bones. Exercise plays an important role in strengthening of bones and lack of regular exercise adds to the problem.
What are the implications of osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis results in frequent back pain, neck pain tiredness and fatigue. Patient finds it difficult to carry out daily activities like squatting on floor, bending and lifting weight. Activities like travelling, sitting for long aggravates knee pain. Osteoporotic patient are more prone for fractures with trivial injuries.
What are the treatment options for osteoporosis?
It is better to investigate for Vitamin D deficiencies and cause for it.
Medical condition like Diabetes,
Thyroid deficiencies add to the problem, and need to be treated
Treatment options are
- Dietary supplement
- Medication
- Adequate exposure to sunlight
- Regular exercises
What is the right age to start Vitamin D supplementation to cure osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is commonly seen in elderly and menopausal females. It is better to start supplementation when they have e complain pertaining to osteoporosis. If younger population it is better to investigate.
Any long acting Vitamin D tablets or injections available to cure osteoporosis?
It is better to get investigated to quantify vitamin D deficiencies and start supplementation. Injectable and oral are available and should be taken after consultation as excess can cause toxicity.
Which is the natural source of Vitamin D?
o Exposure to sun is good source of Vitamin D
o Dairy products like milk, cheese and curd
o Fish and egg also helps to improve Vitamin D.
