Osteoporosis is a chronic disease which is characterised by bone fragility. Everyone loses bone structure with advancing age, and this loss of bone architecture means that fractures are more common. Over 70% of all fractures occur in women and men over 70 years of age.

In women, menopause with loss of oestrogen is the most common cause of bone loss.

Fractures of the hip, for example, have the highest morbidity, mortality and cost and are associated with a loss of independence.

If you are over the age of 50 years, and have one or more of the following:

• Lifestyle risk factors:
  • Falls/poor balance
  • Low physical activity
  • Low body weight
  • Low muscle mass
  • Vitamin D insufficiency
  • Smoking/alcohol – greater than 2 x standard drinks/day
• Diseases:
  • Early menopause in women
  • Low hormone production in men
  • Coeliac disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Diabetes
  • Thyroid disease
  • Liver/kidney disease

Or take certain medications such as steroids or thyroid replacement therapy, then it is recommended that see your GP for an assessment.

To book an appointment, click here or phone 8370 9777.