Osteoporosis is called the "silent disease" because bone is lost with no signs. You may not know that you have osteoporosis until a strain, bump, or fall causes a bone to break.
How Is Osteoporosis Diagnosed?
A bone mineral density test (called a DXA) is the best way to check your bone health. This test can:
- Diagnose osteoporosis
- Check bone strength
- See if treatments are making the bones stronger
How Is Osteoporosis Treated?
Treatment for osteoporosis includes:
- A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
- An exercise plan
- A healthy lifestyle
- Medications, if needed
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, one of the 27 Institutes and Centers of the National Institute of Health (NIH), supports research into the causes, treatment, and prevention of arthritis and musculoskeletal and skin diseases.