Osteoporosis
Updated: Oct 15
By Andy Duckmanton, BOst (Hons), GOsC registered osteopath.
Editorial update: 15 October 2026.
Osteoporosis weakens bones and increases the chance of a fracture. Osteopenia means bone density is below the normal range but not low enough to be classed as osteoporosis; it does not always progress to osteoporosis. Osteopathic care does not treat the underlying loss of bone density or replace medical care. Tell your osteopath about low bone density and any previous fractures before assessment or treatment.
Osteoporosis Basics
Bone has an internal supporting structure. In osteoporosis, changes in this structure and a loss of bone make it more fragile. The illustration shows this in simplified form; it cannot be used to diagnose bone density. Osteoporosis often causes no symptoms until a bone breaks.
A DXA scan, also called a DEXA scan, uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone density. Your clinician considers the result alongside your medical history, previous fractures and other risk factors to assess the likelihood of a future fracture and discuss appropriate care.
Bone is living tissue that is continually broken down and rebuilt. In osteoporosis, bone loss outpaces the formation of new bone.
When to seek medical help
If you have osteoporosis and develop new back pain, particularly after a minor fall or lifting, seek medical advice rather than assuming it is a muscle strain. A spinal fracture is one possible cause. Seek an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 if back pain starts suddenly and is severe, or is getting worse quickly.
Call 999 or go to A&E for back pain with new loss of feeling around the genitals or anus, changes in bladder or bowel control, or weakness, numbness or tingling in both legs. See the NHS back-pain guidance for further advice.
Managing Osteoporosis
Weight-bearing activity and resistance exercise can help maintain or improve bone strength, while balance exercises can reduce the risk of falls. Build up gradually and choose activities suited to your fitness and fracture risk. Ask your healthcare team for advice if you are recovering from a fracture, have had spinal fractures or are unsure what is safe. The Royal Osteoporosis Society exercise guidance offers practical advice. Exercise supports bone health but does not replace prescribed osteoporosis medicine.
Your GP or specialist can assess your fracture risk and discuss whether you need medication. Bisphosphonates are one group of medicines used to slow bone breakdown and reduce the risk of fractures. Other options may be appropriate depending on your circumstances; decisions about HRT should include a discussion of its benefits and risks with your prescriber.
If a private scan has identified low bone density, share the results with your GP. Your healthcare team can also review calcium and vitamin D intake and advise whether dietary changes or supplements are needed. Read more about NHS osteoporosis treatment.
Treatment Considerations
Treatment needs to take account of your bone health and fracture history. Deep massage and spinal manipulation are not appropriate when the risk of a fracture is high, particularly after spinal fractures. A diagnosis of osteopenia alone does not establish which techniques are suitable: individual assessment is needed.
At Eastbourne Osteopathy, Andy Duckmanton can discuss your symptoms, scan results and medical care before deciding whether osteopathic assessment or treatment is appropriate. Any care for muscle or joint symptoms must be adapted to your circumstances. If a fracture is suspected, medical assessment takes priority over hands-on treatment. Contact the clinic before booking if you are unsure about suitability.