Disclaimer: This guide is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
If you are experiencing an emergency, go to your nearest hospital or call 000.
What is it?
Osteoporosis is a condition that occurs when bones lose minerals like calcium faster than they can be replaced, leading to weakened, less dense bones that are more prone to fractures, especially in the hip, wrist, and spine.
These fractures often occur due to minor incidents like falls or trips.
Osteoporosis is especially prevalent among those over 50, with 66% of this age group affected by osteoporosis or osteopenia, though seeking treatment is crucial regardless of age. Early treatment can stop bone loss and greatly reduce fracture risk.
It’s also important to work with your doctor to rule out other potential causes of osteoporosis, such as vitamin D deficiency.
Risk factors
Osteoporosis is largely preventable; however, several factors can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis:
- Age
- Female gender
- Early menopause (before 45)
- Previous fractures
- Family history of hip fractures
- Certain diseases (e.g., hyperthyroidism)
- Specific medications (e.g., corticosteroids, cancer treatments)
Symptoms
Osteoporosis usually has no symptoms until a fracture occurs.
Osteoporosis causes bones to become thin and less dense, making them more susceptible to fractures from minor bumps or falls. A fracture is a break in the bone, which can be complete or partial. Osteoporosis can affect any bone, but the hip, spine, and wrist are most commonly impacted.
Diagnosing Osteoporosis
The most reliable method to diagnose osteoporosis is through a bone density test using a dual-energy absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) scan. This quick and painless scan measures bone density at the hip and spine, and sometimes the forearm.
Medicare Rebate Eligibility:
You may qualify for a Medicare rebate for a scan if you:
- Have been diagnosed with osteoporosis
- Have experienced one or more fractures due to osteoporosis
- Are aged 70 or older
- Have a chronic condition like rheumatoid arthritis, coeliac disease, or liver disease
- Have used corticosteroids long-term
Speak to your doctor, and the clinic to which you are referred for testing, about whether you meet the criteria for a Medicare rebate. Alternatively, you can still request a scan, but it may involve an out-of-pocket cost.
Normal bone v Osteoporosis
How we can help
We provide a convenient and secure system for you to see a doctor from the comfort of your own home, or on the go with your smart device. You can have a video call on-demand by joining the queue for the next available doctor, or schedule an appointment at a time that suits you. We’re open every day, 24 hours a day – including public holidays – because we know illness and injury don’t adhere to conventional practice hours.
Much like a traditional appointment, your telehealth doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including:
- pre-existing conditions, family history and lifestyle.
- preferred treatments and ability to access them.
- individualised advice to treat your condition.
- referrals or scripts at the discretion of the doctor.
Why choose doctors on demand?
Talk to a doctor about osteoporosis.
Our patients choose us for a wide variety of reasons, ranging from managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, to addressing specific concerns such as hair loss and acne – or simply because they need a medical certificate or referral. Choose from over 150 doctors with a wide range of qualifications, experiences, and fluency in 31 languages to find the right fit for you. All our doctors are registered in Australia by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for a minimum of 3 years.