Being told that you have osteoporosis can be upsetting. It may make you feel fearful and anxious, especially when you see pharmaceutical advertisements that warn of dire dangers. Remember that the vast majority of women with osteoporosis live full, rich, active lives.

In addition to medication your doctor may prescribe to slow bone loss and manage your pain (if you have pain), there are many measures you can take to prevent your bones from becoming weaker and, in some cases, even replace some of the bone you have lost. There are also steps you can take to minimize your chance of having a fall and fracturing a bone.

These include:

• getting enough calcium and vitamin D
• lifestyle changes, to quit smoking and limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine
• exercise, with a specific focus on weight-bearing activities
• preventing fractures by modifying your activities and your physical environment  

If your osteoporosis causes you pain and limits your mobility, this may affect the activities you can do and the social roles you play. Some women feel isolated and depressed as a result. There are support groups for people living with osteoporosis. These allow you to talk to others in similar situations and learn from guest speakers. To find a support group near you, call 1-800-463-6842, Monday to Friday, between 9 am and 5 pm, or click here to find the Osteoporosis Canada chapter closest to you.

You can join the Canadian Osteoporosis Patient Network (COPN) or you can join Le Club and receive support from other women in our moderated online discussion groups.