Additional Resources
The biggest myth about osteoporosis – a condition that causes bones to weaken and fracture – is that it only affects older women. At least 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will break a bone due to osteoporosis in their lifetime.
However, it is possible to reduce fracture risk by eating a healthy diet, getting appropriate amounts of vitamin D and calcium, and doing strength and posture training to prevent falls.
If you want to learn more about bone health, you’ve come to the right place. Review frequently asked questions about osteoporosis, videos, articles and more on this resources page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is osteoporosis?
How does someone know if they have osteoporosis?
What is bone density?
What are the main risk factors for osteoporosis?
- Age: As people get older, their risk of bone fracture or osteoporosis increases.
- Gender: Osteoporosis affects more women than men. However, both men and women can be affected as they age.
- Family history: Some families have a higher risk of osteoporosis.
- Nutrition: Insufficient vitamin D and calcium can cause bones to weaken.
- Exercise: Without weight-bearing and resistance exercises, bones and muscles weaken, leading to an increased risk of fracture.
What is the difference between arthritis and osteoporosis?
Arthritis can affect the joints and lead to inflammation. Osteoporosis can affect the bones. In some conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, patients may be at more risk of osteoporosis. In addition, medications used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, such prednisone and other steroids, can accelerate bone loss and increase osteoporosis risk.
What is the biggest myth about osteoporosis?
Another misconception about osteoporosis is that when a person falls and breaks a bone it is because of what they fell on or how they fell. For example, a fall on ice is because of the ice. We now know that a fall down three steps, or from as high as one meter, that leads to a fracture can be classified as a fragility fracture or one that would be consistent with osteoporosis.
Can osteoporosis lead to any serious complications?
What is a fracture liaison service?
We know that individuals who have had a previous fracture have an increased risk for future fractures. The hope is that fracture liaison services will help many people prevent further fractures.
Do fractures in early adulthood predict later fractures, and does this include trauma fractures?
Yes. Any fracture in adulthood increases future fracture risk, even if caused by trauma. Fragility fractures are stronger predictors, but traumatic fractures also signal elevated risk.
Does breastfeeding history affect osteoporosis risk?
Bone loss during lactation is temporary and usually recovers after weaning. Long-term studies show no major increase in postmenopausal osteoporosis risk, even with extended breastfeeding.
How often should you do bone mineral density scans?
Normal bone mineral density scans should be done every 5–10 years, if you have osteopenia: every 2–5 years, if you have osteoporosis or are on treatment: every 1–2 years. High-risk patients may need annual scans.
Is weight-bearing exercise safe for severe spinal osteoporosis?
Yes, but only low-impact weight-bearing and resistance exercises under supervision. Avoid high-impact activities, bending the spine or twisting.
Does taking methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis increase the risk of osteoporosis?
Low-dose methotrexate does not significantly affect bone density.
How can I get calcium and vitamin D if I can't eat dairy?
Calcium and vitamin D is in fortified plant-based milks, leafy greens, beans, nuts or supplements.
Is osteoporosis genetic?
Yes. Family history, especially maternal hip fracture, is a strong risk factor. Genetics influence up to 50–80% of bone density variance.
Are patients with psoriatic arthritis at risk for osteoporosis?
Yes. Psoriatic arthritis is associated with lower bone density and a higher prevalence of osteoporosis, similar to rheumatoid arthritis.
Why is there a higher risk of another fracture after the first one?
A prior fracture signals compromised bone strength and predicts future fractures independently of bone mineral density. The risk of another fracture is highest one to two years after the first one.
Videos
Video Series on Exercise and Osteoporosis
Preventing Falls in Older Adults
Articles + More
Osteoporosis is a silent disease. Here’s what experts say about how to prevent it.
Strengthening our bones early in life through diet and exercise is key, experts say. Osteoporosis is sometimes called a silent thief — you usually don’t know you have it until you break a bone. Read More
What do I need to know about osteoporosis?
New Research to Prevent Fractures in People with Osteoporosis Could Change Care Delivery in BC
Too Much or Too Little Calcium with Dr. David Hanley
Do I Really Need to Care About My Bone Density?
The term “bone density” has become popular on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. But what does it mean? This article in The Cut, dives into bone density and osteoporosis. Read More
