Osteoporosis 
Risk factors
Defination
The most prevalent bone disease, occurring especially in women following menopause. Where the bones become extremely porous and are subject to fracture.
Pathophysiology
Is characterized by reduced bone mass, deterioration of bone matrix and diminished bone architectural strength.
The bones become progressively porous, brittle and they fracture easily.
Multiple compression fractures of the vertebrae result in skeletal deformity, kyphosis.
This kyphosis is associated with loss of height.
Inadequate vitamin D and calcium including lifestyle choices e.g smoking and alcohol consumption.
Genetics and lack of physical activity.
Withdrawal of estrogens at menopause or oophorectomy causes decreased calcitonin and accelerated bone resorption.
Immobility contributes to the development of osteoporosis
Secondary osteoporosis is the result of medication and other conditions that affect bone matabolism.
Diagnosis
Medical Management
Adequate, balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
Regular weight bearing exercise to promote bone formation.
Percutaneous Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty done if the patient is not responding to first line compression.
Pharmacological therapy:
Bisphosphonates alendronate
risedronate
ibandronate
zoledronic
calcitonin
raloxifene
teriparatide
Osteoporotic compression fractures of the vertebrae are managed conservatively
Nursing management
2Promote understanding of osteoporosis and treatment regimen.
Emphasize the need for sufficient calcium, vitamin D and weight bearing exercise to slow the progression of osteoporosis.
Teach the patient about the relief of back pain through bed rest and use of firm nonsagging mattress.
Instruct the patient to move the trunk as a unit and avoid twisting, encourage good posture and good body mechanics.
Encourage high fiber diet, increased fluid intake and use prescribed stool softeners to prevent constipation.
Promote physical activity to strengthen muscles and prevent disuse atrophy.
Encourage outdoor activity in the sunshine to enhance body ability to produce vitamin D.
Routine x-ray films
Dual-energy x-ray absorption
Laboratory studies, serum calcium, serum phosphate, hematocrit and ESR.