Osteoporosis

Overview

Osteoporosis is a common condition where bones become weaker and more fragile, increasing the risk of fractures, particularly from minor falls or low-impact injuries. These breaks, known as fragility fractures, most often occur in the wrist, hip, spine, or shoulder.

At The New Foscote Hospital in Banbury, Oxfordshire, we offer advanced diagnostic tools and expert-led treatment plans to support individuals at risk of or living with osteoporosis and related fractures.

---

What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis develops when the body loses bone mass more quickly than it can replace it, causing bones to become porous and brittle. The condition is often symptomless until a fracture occurs – typically after a seemingly minor incident.

Although more common in postmenopausal women, osteoporosis can affect both men and women of all ages, especially those with certain risk factors or underlying conditions.

---

What Are Fragility Fractures?

A fragility fracture is a break that occurs from a fall from standing height or less, or during routine daily activities such as bending, lifting, or even coughing. These fractures are a major sign of underlying bone weakness and should never be ignored.

Common sites for fragility fractures include:

• Hip
• Wrist
• Spine (vertebral compression fractures)
• Shoulder
• Pelvis

---

Symptoms of Osteoporosis & Fragility Fractures

Osteoporosis is often called a “silent condition” because it may not present symptoms until a fracture occurs. When symptoms do arise, they may include:

• Sudden onset back pain (often due to spinal fracture)
• Loss of height over time
• Stooped or hunched posture
• Increased susceptibility to fractures from minimal trauma
• Slow healing after a bone break

---

Who Is at Risk?

You may be at greater risk of developing osteoporosis and fragility fractures if you:

• Are over the age of 50
• Are postmenopausal
• Have a family history of osteoporosis or hip fractures
• Have low body weight or BMI
• Have a sedentary lifestyle or poor calcium/vitamin D intake
• Smoke or consume excessive alcohol
• Use corticosteroids long-term
• Have certain medical conditions (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, coeliac disease, or hormonal disorders)

---

Diagnosis at The New Foscote Hospital

We offer a full osteoporosis assessment service including:

• Vertebral fracture assessment
• FRAX risk score calculation
• Blood tests to identify underlying causes or contributing conditions
• Specialist consultation with our orthopaedic or metabolic bone health experts

---

Treatment & Management

Osteoporosis is manageable, particularly when diagnosed early. Your treatment may include:

• Bone-strengthening medications (e.g. bisphosphonates, denosumab)
• Vitamin D and calcium supplementation
• Lifestyle advice – diet, exercise, smoking and alcohol reduction
• Weight-bearing and balance-focused physiotherapy
• Fall prevention strategies at home or work
• Fracture treatment or surgical repair when required

Our team will create a tailored plan to help maintain bone strength, minimise fracture risk, and support long-term health.

---

When to Seek Help

If you’ve experienced a low-impact fracture, sudden back pain, or have known risk factors for osteoporosis, it’s important to undergo assessment. Early detection is key to preventing further fractures and maintaining independence.

---

Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital?

• Fast access to diagnostic imaging
• Consultant-led care for fracture and bone health management
• Expert physiotherapy for recovery and fall prevention
• Private, modern facilities in the heart of Oxfordshire

---

Book a Private Consultation

Protect your bone health and reduce your risk of future fractures.
Call us today on 01295 252 281 or enquire online to schedule a consultation.