.png)
Osteoporosis- A “Silent” Disease
A condition in which the bones tend to become weak and brittle giving rise to easy fractures and breakage
The bone tissues undergo a process of break down and formation of new tissues physiologically. Osteoporosis occurs when this balance is disturbed, i.e- when new bone tissue is not able to keep up with the breakdown of the old bone tissues which leads to formation of weak/porous bones. Hence, osteoporosis is a disease of the bones, in which the bone mass and mineral density decreases, making the bone porous, brittle and weak. The healthy bone structure resembles that of a honeycomb. In osteoporotic condition the holes and spaces become bigger and wider than normal.
How is it diagnosed
This condition can many-a-times go unnoticed and is usually picked up on routine bone studies or investigations like x-rays and scans post a fall, physical injury/symptoms. The bones as a result of porosity tends to develop fractures easily.
What are the symptoms
Backache
Decrease in the height overtime
Change in the posture- (stooping or bent curvature of the spine)
Easy fracture/breakage of the bones- especially of the hips, wrist, spinal vertebrae depending on the joint affinity.
Delayed diagnosis and treatment of Osteoporotic bones can lead to physical disability like a hunched posture (bent forward), serious bone complications, delayed healing of the fractures, disability and death
Effective management of Osteoporosis with Homeopathy
Homeopathic medicines aim at improving the individual’s vital capacity (immune system). It helps promote the body’s own healing capacity. In Osteoporosis the homeopathic medicines prescribed are aimed at helping preserve the bone structure and arresting further bone loss, thereby also improving the absorption of vital minerals and nutrients which helps strengthen the bones and early healing of fractures.
The medicine is prescribed on the basis of the individual characteristic symptom presentation, taking into account the physical, mental as well as the emotional state. The medicine most similar to the complaints of the patient is selected and prescribed. Along with the homeopathic medications, we also suggest certain dietary changes and supplements which help
We at the homeopathic curve aim at providing a holistic and effective solution for all your medical needs. Homeopathic medicines are made from natural substances and are free from any chemicals. The medicines helps treat in the most gentle manner, without any side-effects or after-effects. It can be taken by people of all age groups- paediatric, adults, pregnant and lactating women, elderly.
Who is prone to develop Osteoporosis
Elderly especially above the age of 60 are prone to develop this condition. Also females can start losing the bone density as early as at the onset of menopause, due to drop in the hormone- “oestrogen” which is linked with bone loss.
Other risk factors include
· Family history of osteoporosis or weak bones
· Being thin or small framed
· Smoking and increased alcohol intake- as it affects the bone density and bone formation
· Medical conditions such as Hyperthyroidism, Hyperparathyroidism, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Bone-cancer
· Dietary deficiencies- diet containing low/inadequate levels of calcium and Vitamin D
· Digestive disturbances- mal/poor absorption of nutrients from the diet intake. This can lead to multiple deficiencies too.
· Continued use of certain groups of medicines such as corticosteroids, PPI’s used in Antacids (proton pump inhibitors ), certain group of anti-depressants and diabetic medications.
· Surgeries- in females especially post removal of the ovaries (ovaries produce the female sex hormone oestrogen and progesterone, removal leads to oestrogen deficiency leading to bone loss)
· Race and ethnicity- Europeans and Asians are more prone to develop Osteoporosis
· Sedentary lifestyle- being inactive and bed-ridden for long time intervals
Holistic approach to Osteoporosis
Dietary inclusions and Exercise also plays an important role in the management of Osteoporosis.
Dietary inclusions
What you eat can reflect your bone health! Hence the rule is to eat healthy in order to reflect a healthy internal body environment.
· Most importantly, consume a well-balanced diet in order to fasten the healing process.
· Green vegetables contain high levels of calcium and vitamin C, which help maintain the bone mass/density in adults and elderly people. Collard greens, spinach, kale, bok choy and lettuce are common options.
· Include plants having high bone protective anti-oxidants like, cruciferous vegetables such broccoli, parsley, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, radish and cabbage in the diet. (The edible vegetables from the cabbage family are termed as Cruciferous vegetables which contain folate, vitamin C, K, E and fiber which helps promote bone health and additionally also helps lower inflammation and decrease the risk of developing cancer).
· Peppers are a good source of Vitamin C. It helps preserve the bone health and even protects the bone cartilage. Capsicum, black pepper are some options.
· Bright coloured veggies such as sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrots, zucchini too are beneficial for the bone and joint health and hence must be included in the diet.
· Soyabean is another superfood that is naturally rich in calcium. It lowers the bone loss and helps strengthen the bones, when consumed regularly. Tofu made of soyabean is a good option.
Exercise
Practicing specific exercises which are aimed to build and help maintain the bone strength must be included. Strength training and weight bearing exercises are potential examples which help improve the bone mass/density.
(P.S- all exercises are to be performed and practiced under a professional guidance)
Vitamin D which is formed underneath the skin post exposure to sunlight, helps in the absorption of calcium from the intestine . Hence one must expose themselves to the bright sun rays in the early morning hours to reap the benefits. Outdoor activities can help too
It is very important to have a healthy lifestyle in order to enjoy an optimal level of health and wellness. Good nutrition, regular exercise for the mind and body, a stress-free life are key components to help you age with grace and without illness!
Homeopathy provides a holistic solution to manage and treat osteoporosis by improving the bone health, slowing down the bone loss, hence reducing and gradually stopping the condition from progressing further. Not only this, we understand you and curate an individual plan of treatment to suit specific needs and help you heal holistically from the roots providing an optimal physical and mental health balance!
Let’s connect! Let us help you better!