Fracture Protection

Osteoporosis affects a lot of older adults. However, having the disease doesn’t have to mean being on the road to a disability. Preventing osteoporotic fractures is job #1 in this regard. Worldwide, 1 in 3 women over age 50 will experience osteoporotic fractures, as will 1 in 5 men aged 50+ – that’s a fracture every 3 seconds!

It doesn’t have to be this way. Today, there are more medication choices than ever before that can preserve bone mass – and in the case of medications such as Forteo® (teriparatide), prescriptions can do more than stop bone loss, they can increase bone mineral density. Dense bones are less likely to fracture.

Forteo is a self-injected medication prescribed for a 24 month (2 year) treatment period to patients with a high fracture risk. BioPlus works with patients prescribed Forteo, to ensure they feel comfortable with the injection process and can stick with treatment for the best chance of optimal outcomes.

In addition to prescribed osteoporosis medications, diet and lifestyle are a very important part of anti-fracture plans. A diet that includes calcium-rich foods is valuable, and if calcium supplements are taken (to reach the recommended 1,200 mg of calcium daily), then it’s best to take the calcium supplements with food for optimal absorption. In addition, taking vitamin D (1,500-2,000 IU daily) also improves calcium effectiveness. Both these doses of calcium and vitamin D should be discussed with a physician to determine the best amount based on the patient’s age and kidney function.

Additional advice to patients seeking to reduce their risk of osteoporosis fractures includes:

• Incorporate weight-bearing exercises into a fitness plan
• Reduce the risk of falls
  • Grab bars in bathrooms
  • Remove tripping hazards
  • Keep glasses prescription current
  • Practice balance exercises