There are enough normal risks for developing osteoporosis without introducing outside influences! Richmond osteoporotic patients will share that they wish they’d known way back when how to prevent osteoporosis. So Johnson Chiropractic shares with its Richmond clients – those with osteoporosis and those with back pain or neck pain – new studies that point to risk factors for developing osteoporosis.

The more new meds come on the scene, the more researchers have to keep on top of their effects. Many clinical outcomes experienced by patients on these new drugs are not documented in follow up studies for 5 or 10 or 15 or more years. That’s how research goes. But interestingly, just this past month these new reports about osteoporosis risks came out:

1. Osteoporosis is associated with anti-epileptic drug use. (1) Neurontin® and Lyrica® are anti-epileptic drugs used for treatment of chronic low back pain with neuropathic pain. Many Richmond lower back pain and neck pain patients come to Johnson Chiropractic with these drugs. This could be the start of a conversation with your medical prescriber.
2. Long periods of breastfeeding is a risk factor for the development of vertebral fractures after menopause. Because breastfeeding is so beneficial, researchers recommend adequate calcium and Vitamin D during pregnancy and breastfeeding via diet and dietary supplements as necessary. (2) Our Richmond breastfeeding mothers will want to check their diets.
3. Vitamin D insufficiency over 5 years in elderly women between 80 and 90 years of age seemingly increases their 10-year risk of hip and major osteoporotic fractures. (3)
4. Taking anti-depressants is a risk factor for osteoporosis. Older adults suffering with depression are often prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which appear to help. However, the patient’s bone is at risk due to decreased bone mineral density and increased fracture risk from their use. (4)

Johnson Chiropractic just presents these new studies as new findings. They may well open discussions for you with your prescriber or with your Richmond chiropractor to nutritionally enhance your diet. Vitamin D and calcium supplementation is cost-effective for women and men with osteoporosis over 60 years of age even if he or she is taking an osteoporosis treatment drug. (5)

There is hope for your bones and for osteoporosis prevention and treatment. Contact Johnson Chiropractic to schedule a Richmond chiropractic appointment and set a treatment plan for your osteoporosis risks.