Osteoporosis
Weak bones, bone density testing and fracture prevention

Osteoporosis makes bones thin and fragile, so they break easily — sometimes after a minor fall or even a cough. It often causes no symptoms until a fracture happens. A simple DEXA bone density scan, available at Charak Hospital, can find it early so that treatment can lower the risk of fractures.

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About osteoporosis

What is osteoporosis?

Bone is living tissue that is constantly broken down and rebuilt. After about the age of 35, and faster after menopause, more bone is lost than replaced. When bone becomes thin and porous, it is called osteoporosis. Fractures of the hip, spine and wrist are the most common.

  • Most common in women after menopause, but men are affected too
  • Low calcium and vitamin D, little sunlight and inactivity contribute
  • Long-term steroid use, thyroid problems, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis raise the risk
  • Smoking and alcohol weaken bones
  • Treatment reduces the risk of fractures

Test

A DEXA scan measures bone density.

Treat

Calcium, vitamin D and bone-strengthening medicines.

Strengthen

Weight-bearing and balance exercise.

Prevent falls

Safer homes and better balance.

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Who should be tested

Signs and who should get a bone density test

Osteoporosis is often silent. Ask your doctor about a DEXA scan if any of these apply:

Women after menopause

Especially over 60, or earlier with risk factors.

Men over 70

Or younger with risk factors.

A fracture after a minor fall

A sign of fragile bones.

Loss of height

Or a stooped back.

Long-term steroids

Three months or more of steroid tablets.

Low body weight

Or a history of eating very little.

Family history

A parent with a hip fracture.

Other conditions

Thyroid, rheumatoid arthritis, early menopause.

Sudden back pain after a minor strain in an older person can be a spine fracture. See a doctor for assessment. Call 0522-666-4444.

Diagnosis

How osteoporosis is diagnosed

Diagnosis is based on a bone density test and your risk factors.

DEXA scan

A low-dose X-ray scan of the hip and spine; see our DEXA scan page.

T-score

−1 to −2.5 suggests low bone mass (osteopenia); −2.5 or below suggests osteoporosis.

Fracture risk

Your doctor may estimate your 10-year fracture risk.

Blood tests

Calcium, vitamin D, kidney and thyroid tests to find other causes.

X-ray of the spine

If a spine fracture is suspected.

Treatment

Treatment

Treatment aims to strengthen bones and prevent fractures.

Nutrition and supplements

Enough calcium and vitamin D are the foundation of bone health. Your doctor will advise whether you need supplements.

Milk, curd, paneer, ragi, green leafy vegetablesSunlight exposure as advisedSupplements if diet is not enough

Take care

  • Do not exceed advised doses
  • Tell your doctor about kidney stones
  • Space calcium and iron tablets apart

Good to know

  • Supplements alone may not be enough for osteoporosis
Everyday care

Living with osteoporosis

General guidance — always follow the advice your own doctor gives you.

Stay active

Aim for regular activity most days of the week.

Habits

Stop smoking and limit alcohol.

Prevent falls

Get your eyes checked, review medicines that cause dizziness and use a walking aid if needed.

Contact us urgently if

  • A fall with severe hip or back pain
  • Inability to stand or walk after a fall
  • Sudden severe back pain
0522-666-4444
Myths & facts

Myths about osteoporosis

Tap a card to see the fact.

Myth

“Osteoporosis is only a women’s problem.”

Tap to flip
Fact

Men also develop osteoporosis, especially after 70 or with risk factors.

Myth

“Drinking milk is enough.”

Tap to flip
Fact

Calcium helps, but exercise, vitamin D and sometimes medicines are also needed.

Myth

“Weak bones cause pain, so I would know.”

Tap to flip
Fact

Osteoporosis is usually silent until a fracture happens.

Your bone health team

Orthopaedics and gynaecology

Orthopaedics DEXA scan Gynaecology
Practical help

What to bring, costs & insurance

A little preparation helps us help you faster.

What to bring to your visit

Tick off as you pack:

  • Any previous DEXA reports
  • List of medicines, especially steroids
  • Previous fracture X-rays
  • Insurance card

Costs & insurance

Costs depend on the tests and treatment you need and the length of any hospital stay. Ask our team for a written estimate.

  • ✓Written estimate— ask for one before planned procedures or admission.
  • ✓Health insurance & TPA— cashless treatment for admissions under tie-up insurers; outpatient visits depend on your policy.
  • ✓Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) accepted for eligible admissions.
  • ✓Corporate & PSU panels— ask whether your employer has a tie-up with Charak Hospital.

*Coverage depends on your policy and the treatment. Our insurance desk can check this for you.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

At what age should I get a DEXA scan?

Women over 65 and men over 70 are commonly advised to have one, and earlier if there are risk factors. Your doctor will advise you.

Can osteoporosis be cured?

Bone density can improve and fracture risk can fall with treatment, but long-term care is usually needed.

How often should DEXA be repeated?

Usually every one to two years during treatment, as your doctor advises.

Is a DEXA scan safe?

It uses a very small dose of X-rays, much less than a standard chest X-ray. Tell staff if you might be pregnant.

Glossary

Words you may hear

DEXADual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, a bone density scan.
T-scoreCompares your bone density with that of a healthy young adult.
OsteopeniaBone density lower than normal but not yet osteoporosis.
Fragility fractureA fracture after a fall from standing height or less.

No matching term. Please ask your doctor at your next visit.

Related pages

Related departments and guides

Orthopaedics DEXA scan Knee arthritis Women’s health Health library

Check your bone health

Ask about a DEXA scan and consultation. Call 0522-666-4444.

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Your details are used only to contact you about your appointment.

Medical information disclaimer: This page provides general health information for patients and families. It is not a substitute for a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor. Treatment decisions depend on each patient's individual condition. In an emergency, call 0522-666-4444 or go to the nearest emergency department.

About this page: Prepared by the Charak Hospital web team with the help of AI writing tools, using information from the Department of Orthopedic & Joint replacement, Charak Hospital & Research Centre ·  Last updated: October 2026

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