Although osteoporosis, arthritis, and osteoarthritis (a form of arthritis) are completely different, the three are often confusing, mainly because of their prefix “osteo.” Considered a disease of the skeleton, osteoporosis is characterized by a reduction in bone density and bone quality, resulting in fractures (broken bones). Osteoporosis is painless and asymptomatic until a fracture occurs.
Arthritis is a disease of the joints and surrounding tissues. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common forms of arthritis. People who are experiencing any type of joint pain should visit Medical Clinics in Kihei.
All joints are not created equal
A joint is the union of two or more bones that allows adjoining bones to be mobile. A person may have both osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Both diseases can cause pain and reduce mobility, but the cause and treatment of these pains are very different.
It is important to properly evaluate a person’s pain because a correct diagnosis will allow him or her to find the right amount of pain relief, which should be tailored to his or her needs. The prefix “osteo”, which means “bone”, is the only common feature of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.
Osteoporosis definition
Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones. The word “osteoporosis” literally means “porous bone.” It is a dysfunction of the bones characterized by a decrease in bone density and bone quality. A person with osteoporosis may fracture a bone more easily.
Symptoms
Osteoporosis is often referred to as a “silent disease” because it can progress in the absence of symptoms until a fracture occurs. When bones are severely affected by osteoporosis, simple gestures like bending over to pick up a heavy grocery bag or sneezing heavily can result in bone fracture. Fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist are those most commonly associated with osteoporosis. If a person is experiencing any type of pain in their bones, they should seek care from Medical Clinics in Kihei.
Treatment
A change in lifestyle and taking prescription drugs can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Healthy eating (sufficient intake of calcium and vitamin D) and physical activity are two important changes in lifestyle habits that should also be considered. Exercise and muscle training can help control pain and solidify bones and muscles, helping to prevent falls. For more information, schedule a consult with Wailea Medical Center today. You can also visit them on Facebook.
