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The type of treatment you will need for osteoporosis will depend on your age, gender, previous medical history and how advanced your osteoporosis is. Often it will be a combination of many treatments, which could include medication, (see medications) for established osteoporosis after a fracture, supplements, special exercises and a calcium rich diet.

Medications are prescribed to prevent further bone loss and the risk of more fractures, by making the cells that force the bone break down, ineffective. Medication doesn’t have any effect on the bone forming cells so that bone density will improve.

Calcium supplements slow bone loss but won’t completely stop it and if you are on medication it’s essential you take calcium for the medication to work properly.

Vitamin D is a key element to good bone health and improving osteoporosis because it helps the body to absorb calcium and has been shown to reduce the frequency of fractures. The most common way to get Vitamin D is through sunlight and at least 20 minutes of sunshine is recommended each day. Many people become Vitamin D deficient and those most at risk are the elderly or disabled who don’t have much exposure to the sun or people who cover their skin for cultural reasons. If you are Vitamin D deficient you may need to take supplements. Calcitriol is a form of Vitamin D available on prescription only. It works by getting the body to use more of the calcium taken in supplements and the food we eat. Research is divided about whether it actually helps reduce fractures.

A nutritionally balanced diet is highly recommended and should include calcium rich foods such as low fat yoghurt, cheese and milk and fresh fruit and vegetables.

Regular exercise reduces the rate of bone loss and increases muscle strength and balance, which helps prevent falls. Weight bearing activities, aerobics and resistance exercises are the best for increasing bone density in the spine, while walking has also been shown to be increase hip bone density.

Stop smoking cigarettes and reducing your alcohol intake will be recommended by your doctor to improve your bone health. Smoking is a risk factor for osteoporosis and research shows a direct relationship between tobacco use and decreased bone density.

Alcohol in moderation (one or two glasses per week) is considered safe for osteoporosis sufferers but excessive drinking will cause bone loss. Alcohol consumption depletes calcium reserves and reduces the body’s ability to absorb calcium from food.