Osteoporosis is a degenerative disease that causes the bones to weaken and become brittle. As one of the most prevalent conditions among older adults, it usually affects the bones and joints near the hips, wrists, knees, and spine.
In fact, nearly 1.5 million osteoporotic fractures are reported each year in the United States, making procedures such as knee surgery and hip replacement extremely common. Living with osteoporosis can take a toll on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Here are a few ways osteoporosis affects a person’s life:
It Makes Fall Prevention a Necessity
People with osteoporosis need to be extra vigilant of bone fracture risks. Depending on the severity of their condition, even a minor shove, collision, or fall can result in a fracture. Therefore, they must take measures for fall prevention and minimize the risks at home or in frequently visited areas.
For instance, a person with osteoporosis should secure surfaces and look out for trailing wires, uneven steps, rolled-over rugs, slippery floors, and any other items that may cause them to trip. They may also need to wear protective gear to cushion their fall in case they do trip. Older individuals are also advised to have regular hearing and sight tests. Moreover, fall prevention measures may also include making lifestyle adjustments and giving up certain activities.
It May Negatively Affect Self-Esteem
Osteoporosis tends to affect a person’s physical appearance. They may develop a stooped posture and loss of height because of bone degeneration, appearing older than they are. Moreover, curvature of the spine from spinal fractures may also cause the belly to protrude, further impacting physical appearance.
The change in physical appearance can be emotionally and psychologically overwhelming for individuals. They’re likely to become more self-conscious of how they look, and the loss of a youthful appearance can adversely affect their self-esteem. It significantly impacts the way they perceive themselves and their relationship with their bodies, and diminished self-esteem can lead to mental health deterioration.
It May Lead to Social Exclusion
The social consequences of living with osteoporosis aren’t widely discussed, but they can also impact physical and mental health. These are most prominently experienced by individuals who’d previously indulged in various networking activities and had an active social life. Osteoporosis can limit their mobility and social activities, depriving them of much-needed connection with others.
People with osteoporosis may feel socially excluded and withdraw from their loved ones because they cannot participate in certain activities the same way anymore. They may also feel guilty or hesitant to ask for favors, further secluding themselves.
An osteoporosis diagnosis doesn’t mean you can’t live a happy and healthy life! Our orthopedic Surgeon League City TX at Houston Physicians’ Hospital provide various specialized osteoporosis treatments to help patients live optimally. These include Joint Pain Treatments near NASA TX, hip treatments, and other orthopedic treatments.
Visit our website to learn more and to find a doctor who’s right for you.