BUILD STRONG BONES AND PREVENT OSTEOPOROSIS WITH ENERGY OF HOMOEOPATHY
Good health of the individual is mostly depend on strong bone and healthy skeletal makeup. There are totally 206 bones present in human body which are exquisitely and perfectly placed to keep skeleton in appropriate shape and in a healthy manner. Normal bone is composed of protein, collagen, and calcium, all of which give bone its strength. Bone has hard and solid outer shell surrounding the connecting plates and rods of bones within which lies the bone marrow, internally they are soft and spongy and thus bones are light, strong and flexible.
Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by a decrease in the density of bone, decreasing its strength and resulting in fragile bones. Osteoporosis literally leads to abnormally porous bone that is compressible, like a sponge. This disorder of the skeleton weakens the bone and results in frequent fractures (breaks) in the bones. Osteopenia, by definition, is a condition of bone that is slightly less dense than normal bone but not to the degree of bone in osteoporosis.
AETIOLOGY & RISK FACTORS
The leading cause of osteoporosis is a lack of certain hormones, particularly oestrogen in women and androgen in men. Women, especially those older than 60 years of age, are frequently diagnosed with the disease. Menopause is accompanied by lower oestrogen levels and increases a woman's risk for osteoporosis. Other factors that may contribute to bone loss in this age group include inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, lack of weight-bearing exercise, and other age-related changes in endocrine functions (in addition to lack of oestrogen).
Other conditions that may lead to osteoporosis include overuse of corticosteroids (Cushing syndrome), thyroid problems, lack of muscle use, bone cancer, certain genetic disorders, use of certain medications, and problems such as low calcium in the diet.
Women are at a greater risk than men, especially women who are thin or have a small frame, as are those of advanced age. Women who are white or Asian, especially those with a family member with osteoporosis, have a greater risk of developing osteoporosis than other women.
Women who are postmenopausal, including those who have had early or surgically induced menopause, or abnormal or absence of menstrual periods, are at greater risk.
Cigarette smoking, eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia, low amounts of calcium in the diet, heavy alcohol consumption, inactive lifestyle, and use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids and anticonvulsants, are also risk factors.
Rheumatoid arthritis itself is a risk factor for osteoporosis.
Having a parent who has/had osteoporosis is a risk factor for the offspring.
CLINICAL FEATURES
Early in the course of the disease, osteoporosis may cause no symptoms. Later, it may cause height loss or dull pain in the bones or muscles, particularly low back pain or neck pain.
Later in the course of the disease, sharp pains may come on suddenly. The pain may not radiate (spread to other areas); it may be made worse by activity that puts weight on the area, may be accompanied by tenderness, and generally begins to subside in one week. Pain may linger more than three months.
People with osteoporosis may not even recall a fall or other trauma that might cause a broken bone, such as in the spine or foot. Spinal compression fractures may result in loss of height with a stooped posture (called a dowager's hump).
Fractures at other sites, commonly the hip or bones of the wrist, usually result from a fall.
DIAGNOSIS
A routine X-ray can reveal osteoporosis of the bone because the bones appear much thinner and lighter than normal bones. Unfortunately, by the time X-rays can detect osteoporosis, at least 30% of the bone has already been lost. In addition, X-rays are not accurate indicators of bone density. Thus, the appearance of the bone on X-ray often is affected by variations in the degree of exposure of the X-ray film.
The National Osteoporosis Foundation, the American Medical Association, and other major medical organizations recommend a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan (DXA, formerly known as DEXA) be used for the diagnosis of osteoporosis. DXA typically measures bone density in the hip, the spine, and the forearm. The test takes only five to 15 minutes to perform, exposes patients to very little radiation (less than one-tenth to one-hundredth of the amount used on a standard chest X-ray), and is quite precise.
The bone density of the patient is compared to the average peak bone density of young adults of the same sex and race. This score is called the "T score" or T-score, and it expresses the bone density in terms of the number of standard deviations (SD) below peak young adult bone mass.
Osteoporosis is defined as a bone density T score of -2.5 or below.
Osteopenia (between normal and osteoporosis) is defined as bone density T score between -1 and -2.5.
It is important to note that while osteopenia is considered a lesser degree of bone loss than osteoporosis, it nevertheless can be of concern when it is associated with other risk factors that can increase the chances for developing vertebral, hip, and other fractures. In this setting, osteopenia may require medication as part of the treatment program.
BONE MINERAL DENSITY TESTING
The National Osteoporosis Foundation guidelines state that there are several groups of people who should consider DXA testing for proper diagnosis of bone health:
All postmenopausal women below age 65 who have risk factors for osteoporosis
All women aged 65 and older
Postmenopausal women with fractures, although this is not mandatory because treatment may well be started regardless of bone density
Women with any of more than 50 medical conditions associated with osteoporosis; a primary care physician can scan a patient's list of medical illnesses to determine if one of these conditions is present (see causes above)
Women whose decision to begin treatment for osteoporosis might be aided by bone density testing to determine the presence or absence of osteoporosis or osteopenia
The National Osteoporosis Foundation guidelines state that bone-density testing does not need to be performed if a person has a known osteoporotic fracture because the patient will be treated for osteoporosis with or without a bone-density study. In addition, bone-density testing is not appropriate if the person undergoing the test is not willing to take treatment based on the results. Therefore, if bone-density testing is done, it should be performed on people willing to take some specific action to improve their bone health based on the results.
Bone biopsy may be useful in unusual forms of osteoporosis. It provides information about rate of bone turnover and presence of secondary forms of osteoporosis. Patient with high bone turnover usually respond to antiresorptive drugs.
MANAGEMENT
General
Lifestyle changes, including quitting cigarette smoking, curtailing excessive alcohol intake, exercising regularly, and consuming a balanced diet with adequate calcium and vitamin D
Exercise has a wide variety of beneficial health effects. However, exercise does not bring about substantial increases in bone density. The benefit of exercise for osteoporosis has mostly to do with decreasing the risk of falls, probably because balance is improved and/or muscle strength is increased. Research has not yet determined what type of exercise is best for osteoporosis or for how long it should be continued. Until research has answered these questions, most doctors recommend weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, preferably daily for optimal health.
Building strong and healthy bones requires an adequate dietary intake of calcium beginning in childhood and adolescence for both sexes.
Home Remedies
Some of the most effective home remedies for osteoporosis include the use of beans, vinegar, spinach, milk, pineapple juice, salmon, tofu, red clover, black cohosh, yogurt, and calcium supplements, as well as behavioral modifications, including quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and reducing protein intake.
Milk - Arguably the most famous substance to help “build strong bones”, the calcium found in milk is a wonderful way to work a daily bone-boost into your diet and health regimen. A single glass of milk can represent one-quarter of the recommended daily amount.
Lower Protein Intake - Research has suggested that human beings actually consume more protein than is necessary for a healthy life, and the excretion of protein often includes excreting [13]calcium, which compounds the problems of osteoporosis
One of the newest findings concerning osteoporosis has to do with manganese deficiency, so ensuring a high level of that mineral can seriously help fend off bone degradation. Freshly squeezed pineapple juice is a rich source of manganese.
Excessive consumption of calcium to prevent osteoporosis can cause other problems, like calcium deposition that leads to gout, gall stones etc. Long-term treatment with calcium supplements is not recommended because some patients develop bone spurs, kidney and gall bladder stones due to calcium deposits. Discuss with trained medical professional about diet which is suitable for age before adding any major home remedies for osteoporosis.
HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT
The aim of homeopathy is not only to treat osteoporosis but to address its underlying cause and individual susceptibility. The selection of remedy is based upon the theory of individualization and symptoms similarity by using holistic approach. As far as therapeutic medication is concerned, several well-proved medicines are available for osteoporosis treatment that can be selected on the basis of cause, sensation and modalities of the complaints.
Homoeopathic remedies used in low potency doses can be a great part in the quest to nourish, build, and maintain strong, healthy, vitally intelligent and flexible bones. Homoeopathically prepared minerals in particular help us to engage the energy of the foods, herbs, and exercise we also use to build and strengthen bone. Homoeopathics used in this way might be seen as reminders to our body’s intelligent foundation which directs nourishment and growth, Homoeopathy can also be a most useful bridge when even the best lifestyle efforts are failing to work well enough and you find yourself tempted to take calcium supplements. For individualized remedy selection and treatment, the patient should consult a qualified homeopathic doctor in person. Some important remedies are given below for osteoporosis treatment:
Indicated Remedies
Indications
Calcaria Phos
it is an excellent remedy for osteoporosis. Delicate and easily breakable bones. The bones of the head are deficient in quality and quantity. This will promote the absorption of calcium from the food that the patient takes. The bones of the neck are too small and weak to support the head which is normally large. The bones of the extremities are also weak and fragile. Stools green, undigested and offensive. No appetite, it is a bone builder and creates new blood cells. It gives general tone to the entire organism.
Calcaria Carb
remarkable medicine for osteoporosis. Promotes the absorption of calcium
Calcaria Iod
should be thought of when there is deficiency of muscles and fat in addition to deficiency of bones. Unhealthy condition of glands is always present when this remedy is indicated.
Silicea
People who need this remedy are often nervous, easily tired, very chilly, and tend to sweat at night. They have a refined or delicate appearance, and often have weakness in the spine. Their injuries are slow to heal, and they tend to have a low resistance to infection. Moderate exercise often warms the person up and improves energy.
Phosphorus
This remedy is often helpful to people who are sensitive, suggestible, imaginative, but easily tired or weakened physically. Bones may be less strong than normal, or be slow to heal after fractures. Weakness is often felt in the spine, with burning pain between the shoulder blades. People who need this remedy are often tall and thin with an easily-flushing face. A desire for refreshing foods (especially ice cream) and strong thirst for cold or carbonated drinks are other indications for Phosphorus
Symphytum
When osteoporosis is a problem, fractures often occur from mild trauma. This remedy can be useful for strengthening and healing bones when new fractures occur, and also helpful when pain persists in old, healed fractures (see Fractures).
Osteocynesine
Homoeopathic calcium tablets
French and Czech teams reported beneficial effects of a complex homeopathic medicine Osteocynesine in osteoporosis in menopausal women. Women got bone density tests before and after 3- and 6-month treatment with Osteocynesine that contains homeopathic dilutions of Calcarea carbonica, Calcarea phosphorica, Calcarea fluorica and Sulphur iodatum. The follow-ups showed increase of bone density.
Good health of the individual is mostly depend on strong bone and healthy skeletal makeup. There are totally 206 bones present in human body which are exquisitely and perfectly placed to keep skeleton in appropriate shape and in a healthy manner. Normal bone is composed of protein, collagen, and calcium, all of which give bone its strength. Bone has hard and solid outer shell surrounding the connecting plates and rods of bones within which lies the bone marrow, internally they are soft and spongy and thus bones are light, strong and flexible.
Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by a decrease in the density of bone, decreasing its strength and resulting in fragile bones. Osteoporosis literally leads to abnormally porous bone that is compressible, like a sponge. This disorder of the skeleton weakens the bone and results in frequent fractures (breaks) in the bones. Osteopenia, by definition, is a condition of bone that is slightly less dense than normal bone but not to the degree of bone in osteoporosis.
AETIOLOGY & RISK FACTORS
The leading cause of osteoporosis is a lack of certain hormones, particularly oestrogen in women and androgen in men. Women, especially those older than 60 years of age, are frequently diagnosed with the disease. Menopause is accompanied by lower oestrogen levels and increases a woman's risk for osteoporosis. Other factors that may contribute to bone loss in this age group include inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, lack of weight-bearing exercise, and other age-related changes in endocrine functions (in addition to lack of oestrogen).
Other conditions that may lead to osteoporosis include overuse of corticosteroids (Cushing syndrome), thyroid problems, lack of muscle use, bone cancer, certain genetic disorders, use of certain medications, and problems such as low calcium in the diet.
Women are at a greater risk than men, especially women who are thin or have a small frame, as are those of advanced age. Women who are white or Asian, especially those with a family member with osteoporosis, have a greater risk of developing osteoporosis than other women.
Women who are postmenopausal, including those who have had early or surgically induced menopause, or abnormal or absence of menstrual periods, are at greater risk.
Cigarette smoking, eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia, low amounts of calcium in the diet, heavy alcohol consumption, inactive lifestyle, and use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids and anticonvulsants, are also risk factors.
Rheumatoid arthritis itself is a risk factor for osteoporosis.
Having a parent who has/had osteoporosis is a risk factor for the offspring.
CLINICAL FEATURES
Early in the course of the disease, osteoporosis may cause no symptoms. Later, it may cause height loss or dull pain in the bones or muscles, particularly low back pain or neck pain.
Later in the course of the disease, sharp pains may come on suddenly. The pain may not radiate (spread to other areas); it may be made worse by activity that puts weight on the area, may be accompanied by tenderness, and generally begins to subside in one week. Pain may linger more than three months.
People with osteoporosis may not even recall a fall or other trauma that might cause a broken bone, such as in the spine or foot. Spinal compression fractures may result in loss of height with a stooped posture (called a dowager's hump).
Fractures at other sites, commonly the hip or bones of the wrist, usually result from a fall.
DIAGNOSIS
A routine X-ray can reveal osteoporosis of the bone because the bones appear much thinner and lighter than normal bones. Unfortunately, by the time X-rays can detect osteoporosis, at least 30% of the bone has already been lost. In addition, X-rays are not accurate indicators of bone density. Thus, the appearance of the bone on X-ray often is affected by variations in the degree of exposure of the X-ray film.
The National Osteoporosis Foundation, the American Medical Association, and other major medical organizations recommend a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan (DXA, formerly known as DEXA) be used for the diagnosis of osteoporosis. DXA typically measures bone density in the hip, the spine, and the forearm. The test takes only five to 15 minutes to perform, exposes patients to very little radiation (less than one-tenth to one-hundredth of the amount used on a standard chest X-ray), and is quite precise.
The bone density of the patient is compared to the average peak bone density of young adults of the same sex and race. This score is called the "T score" or T-score, and it expresses the bone density in terms of the number of standard deviations (SD) below peak young adult bone mass.
Osteoporosis is defined as a bone density T score of -2.5 or below.
Osteopenia (between normal and osteoporosis) is defined as bone density T score between -1 and -2.5.
It is important to note that while osteopenia is considered a lesser degree of bone loss than osteoporosis, it nevertheless can be of concern when it is associated with other risk factors that can increase the chances for developing vertebral, hip, and other fractures. In this setting, osteopenia may require medication as part of the treatment program.
BONE MINERAL DENSITY TESTING
The National Osteoporosis Foundation guidelines state that there are several groups of people who should consider DXA testing for proper diagnosis of bone health:
All postmenopausal women below age 65 who have risk factors for osteoporosis
All women aged 65 and older
Postmenopausal women with fractures, although this is not mandatory because treatment may well be started regardless of bone density
Women with any of more than 50 medical conditions associated with osteoporosis; a primary care physician can scan a patient's list of medical illnesses to determine if one of these conditions is present (see causes above)
Women whose decision to begin treatment for osteoporosis might be aided by bone density testing to determine the presence or absence of osteoporosis or osteopenia
The National Osteoporosis Foundation guidelines state that bone-density testing does not need to be performed if a person has a known osteoporotic fracture because the patient will be treated for osteoporosis with or without a bone-density study. In addition, bone-density testing is not appropriate if the person undergoing the test is not willing to take treatment based on the results. Therefore, if bone-density testing is done, it should be performed on people willing to take some specific action to improve their bone health based on the results.
Bone biopsy may be useful in unusual forms of osteoporosis. It provides information about rate of bone turnover and presence of secondary forms of osteoporosis. Patient with high bone turnover usually respond to antiresorptive drugs.
MANAGEMENT
General
Lifestyle changes, including quitting cigarette smoking, curtailing excessive alcohol intake, exercising regularly, and consuming a balanced diet with adequate calcium and vitamin D
Exercise has a wide variety of beneficial health effects. However, exercise does not bring about substantial increases in bone density. The benefit of exercise for osteoporosis has mostly to do with decreasing the risk of falls, probably because balance is improved and/or muscle strength is increased. Research has not yet determined what type of exercise is best for osteoporosis or for how long it should be continued. Until research has answered these questions, most doctors recommend weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, preferably daily for optimal health.
Building strong and healthy bones requires an adequate dietary intake of calcium beginning in childhood and adolescence for both sexes.
Home Remedies
Some of the most effective home remedies for osteoporosis include the use of beans, vinegar, spinach, milk, pineapple juice, salmon, tofu, red clover, black cohosh, yogurt, and calcium supplements, as well as behavioral modifications, including quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and reducing protein intake.
Milk - Arguably the most famous substance to help “build strong bones”, the calcium found in milk is a wonderful way to work a daily bone-boost into your diet and health regimen. A single glass of milk can represent one-quarter of the recommended daily amount.
Lower Protein Intake - Research has suggested that human beings actually consume more protein than is necessary for a healthy life, and the excretion of protein often includes excreting [13]calcium, which compounds the problems of osteoporosis
One of the newest findings concerning osteoporosis has to do with manganese deficiency, so ensuring a high level of that mineral can seriously help fend off bone degradation. Freshly squeezed pineapple juice is a rich source of manganese.
Excessive consumption of calcium to prevent osteoporosis can cause other problems, like calcium deposition that leads to gout, gall stones etc. Long-term treatment with calcium supplements is not recommended because some patients develop bone spurs, kidney and gall bladder stones due to calcium deposits. Discuss with trained medical professional about diet which is suitable for age before adding any major home remedies for osteoporosis.
HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT
The aim of homeopathy is not only to treat osteoporosis but to address its underlying cause and individual susceptibility. The selection of remedy is based upon the theory of individualization and symptoms similarity by using holistic approach. As far as therapeutic medication is concerned, several well-proved medicines are available for osteoporosis treatment that can be selected on the basis of cause, sensation and modalities of the complaints.
Homoeopathic remedies used in low potency doses can be a great part in the quest to nourish, build, and maintain strong, healthy, vitally intelligent and flexible bones. Homoeopathically prepared minerals in particular help us to engage the energy of the foods, herbs, and exercise we also use to build and strengthen bone. Homoeopathics used in this way might be seen as reminders to our body’s intelligent foundation which directs nourishment and growth, Homoeopathy can also be a most useful bridge when even the best lifestyle efforts are failing to work well enough and you find yourself tempted to take calcium supplements. For individualized remedy selection and treatment, the patient should consult a qualified homeopathic doctor in person. Some important remedies are given below for osteoporosis treatment:
Indicated Remedies
Indications
Calcaria Phos
it is an excellent remedy for osteoporosis. Delicate and easily breakable bones. The bones of the head are deficient in quality and quantity. This will promote the absorption of calcium from the food that the patient takes. The bones of the neck are too small and weak to support the head which is normally large. The bones of the extremities are also weak and fragile. Stools green, undigested and offensive. No appetite, it is a bone builder and creates new blood cells. It gives general tone to the entire organism.
Calcaria Carb
remarkable medicine for osteoporosis. Promotes the absorption of calcium
Calcaria Iod
should be thought of when there is deficiency of muscles and fat in addition to deficiency of bones. Unhealthy condition of glands is always present when this remedy is indicated.
Silicea
People who need this remedy are often nervous, easily tired, very chilly, and tend to sweat at night. They have a refined or delicate appearance, and often have weakness in the spine. Their injuries are slow to heal, and they tend to have a low resistance to infection. Moderate exercise often warms the person up and improves energy.
Phosphorus
This remedy is often helpful to people who are sensitive, suggestible, imaginative, but easily tired or weakened physically. Bones may be less strong than normal, or be slow to heal after fractures. Weakness is often felt in the spine, with burning pain between the shoulder blades. People who need this remedy are often tall and thin with an easily-flushing face. A desire for refreshing foods (especially ice cream) and strong thirst for cold or carbonated drinks are other indications for Phosphorus
Symphytum
When osteoporosis is a problem, fractures often occur from mild trauma. This remedy can be useful for strengthening and healing bones when new fractures occur, and also helpful when pain persists in old, healed fractures (see Fractures).
Osteocynesine
Homoeopathic calcium tablets
French and Czech teams reported beneficial effects of a complex homeopathic medicine Osteocynesine in osteoporosis in menopausal women. Women got bone density tests before and after 3- and 6-month treatment with Osteocynesine that contains homeopathic dilutions of Calcarea carbonica, Calcarea phosphorica, Calcarea fluorica and Sulphur iodatum. The follow-ups showed increase of bone density.
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