Your bones are living tissue that constantly rebuild throughout your life. The skeletal system gives you shape, provides support, and facilitates movement. Bone diseases are conditions that weaken the bones and make them more likely to fracture. There are many different types of bone diseases and they occur for a variety of reasons. Some conditions are the result of unavoidable genetic circumstances and others can occur as a result of dietary or environmental risk factors.
One of the main issues that come with bone disease is the increased risk for fractures. According to a report by the Office of the Surgeon General (US), an estimated 1.5 million individuals suffer a fracture due to bone disease. These conditions are serious. If you suspect that you or someone you love might have a bone disease, contact a medical provider immediately.
What Are Some Common Bone Diseases?
Similar to remodeling a home, older bone tissue is replaced by newly formed tissue so that we’re able to depend on the structure of our skeleton. When a bone disease occurs, the weakened state of the skeletal structure hinders the ability to move and perform daily activities. While some conditions are unavoidable, understanding the warning signs of bone disease can significantly help. Consider the following list for a few examples of common bone diseases:
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease in the United States and affects over 54 million Americans. While our bodies are supposed to replenish the old bone tissue with new fiber, osteoporosis occurs when the bone decays at a higher rate than the body can add new tissue. This leaves bones weak and susceptible to fractures.
Paget’s Disease of Bone
Similar to osteoporosis, Paget’s disease results from issues during the remodeling process. However, instead of the tissue deteriorating at a fast rate, the amount of new tissue is replaced too quickly. This rapid growth results in weaker and misshapen bone tissue that is more susceptible to fractures and may cause pinched nerves and other symptoms.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta
This condition refers to the eight rare genetic disorders that hinder the integrity of the bones. Those who suffer from osteogenesis imperfecta have a genetic disorder that affects how the body produces collagen. In the human body, 90% of the bone matrix is made from collagen—a form of connective tissue which creates fibers that bind the bones together.
Osteomalacia
When our bodies are not receiving enough Vitamin D from our diets and the sunlight, it can lead to a softening of the bone tissue which may compress under the weight of a person’s body. This condition can also cause spinal fractures, pelvic pain, and heart problems.
Osteoarthritis
This condition occurs when everyday movement and stress begin to break down the joints. As the bones grind together, the motion causes pain and may encourage bone spurs. These can pinch nerves and cause numbness and tingling.
With many types of bone disorders, taking care of your bone health is essential. When you feel persistent and aggressive pain in the back, neck, or spine, you must discuss these symptoms with a medical professional. While these conditions may not be curable, there are ways to treat these disorders.
Signs and Symptoms of Bone Disease
If you are concerned that you might have a bone disease, there are a few signs and symptoms that might indicate this is the case. If you notice any of the following, we strongly recommend you seek medical attention as soon as possible so your issues are addressed quickly and properly:
- Pain in your bones
- Fractures following low impact or low energy activity
- General weakness
- Pain in your back or joins
- Certain infections
- Sprains
- Tingling or numbness
- Hearing loss
- Delayed growth in children
- Headaches
Other symptoms may also indicate that you need to see your general doctor or visit emergency medical facilities quickly. Working with an orthopedic surgeon and other specialists can help mitigate damage and negative impact on your body as much as possible. Your medical professional team can recommend treatment plans tailored to your needs and lifestyle, assess the level of damage or severity, and refer you to additional specialists whenever necessary.
How Can NJ Spine & Orthopedic Help With Your Bone Disease?
Our NJ Spine & Orthopedic team consists of passionate, award-winning neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedic specialists, and physicians. We use groundbreaking research techniques and select from hundreds of different procedures to create a treatment plan best suited for your condition.
Listed below are some common treatment options:
At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, one of our primary goals is to relieve patients’ pain. With both non-surgical methods and minimally invasive surgeries, our team can provide clients with the best possible care.
Discover Expert Spine and Back Surgeons at NJ Spine & Orthopedic
Bone disease can make it difficult to experience your everyday life. Our team at NJ Spine & Orthopedic dedicates their practice to providing clients with high-quality care. With many types of procedures and innovative technology, our doctors have the tools to assist your chronic pain. For more information on our treatment processes and to talk with one of our board-certified doctors, call (866) 272-9271 or fill out our online contact form.