There are now many treatments available for Osteoporosis. However it is important to note that all medications have potential side effects whether they are for Osteoporosis or any another condition. When dealing with Osteoporosis, the risk of fracture usually far outweighs the risk of possible side effects. I would advise you to speak to your mother's doctor and/or an Osteoporosis/bone specialist about a treatment that is right for your mother.

Which treatment a person is put on is usually based on the following:
• Risk of fracture or re-fracture
• Cause/s of their Osteoporosis
• Their age
• DXA scan results of their spine and hips
• Medical history

Taking the recommended daily amount of Calcium, Vitamin D and weight bearing exercise are essential for the prevention of Osteoporosis. I would suggest your mother start taking supplements straight away. The brand name of some include Calcichew D3 Forte, Osteofos D 3 forte, Caltrate Plus and Ideos.

Strontium Ranelate may be prescribed. This drug prevents bone loss and increases bone mineral density through the formation of new normal strong bone.

The doctor may also recommend vertebroplasty-  a non surgical treatment which involves a needle with "bone cement" in it, inserted through the skin into the fractured body of the vertebrae.

There are many more treatments available and it is important you speak with your mother's doctor to ensure she is receiving adequate treatment.

If you have any questions you would like answered please e-mail Noeleen Cronin on info@homeinstead.ie. Noleen is trained as a nurse and specialised in elder care before joining Home Instead Senior Care.

For further information on elder care issues and to keep up to date with Home Instead Senior Care news please click on the following link: http://www.homeinstead.ie/keep_in_touch.aspx.