Osteoporosis

Who should be checked

Osteoporosis often has no symptoms until a bone breaks. A bone density scan (DEXA) finds it early.

A scan is advised for women 65 and older, and for younger women after menopause who have risk factors.

How it is treated

• Calcium and vitamin D, from food first, and supplements if needed.
• Exercise that builds strength and balance, and making your home safer against falls.
• Medicine that strengthens bone, if your risk is high. Dr. Pan explains the benefits and side effects, so you can decide.
• Chinese herbs such as du zhong (eucommia bark), long used in Chinese medicine to nourish the liver and kidneys and help strengthen bones and sinews. Acupuncture to ease back pain. Both work alongside your bone medicine; keep taking it as prescribed.

Follow-up

Visits to review your medicine and your falls risk, and a repeat bone density scan when it is due. Dr. Pan will tell you when. If you have back pain, acupuncture is usually once a week at first.

Common questions

Can herbs or acupuncture make my bones stronger?

Herbs help. Chinese medicine has long used herbs such as du zhong (eucommia bark) to nourish the liver and kidneys and help strengthen bones and sinews. Acupuncture eases pain and helps you feel better overall. They work best together with exercise, calcium and vitamin D, and your bone medicine; keep taking it as prescribed.

Are bone medicines safe?

Yes, for most people. Like all medicines they can have side effects, but serious ones are rare. Dr. Pan goes over the risks and benefits with you.

I already take calcium. Is that enough?

Calcium works best together with vitamin D, exercise and, if needed, bone medicine. Bring the bottle, and Dr. Pan will check the dose and what else will help your bones.