9,10 Calcitriol, the most potent metabolite of vitamin D, enhances calcium absorption from the intestines. Although exercise is a regular component of treatment regimens, its effect on the human skeleton is unclear. During growth years, exercise produces higher BMD in those who do than in those who don't exercise, notably in the stressed skeletal areas. Heavy muscular activity appears to produce an effect on the involved bones, such as the humerus in tennis players. Conversely, in both men and women, intense athletic training can cause bone loss.
Efforts continue to discover new treatment options for osteoporosis.
Researchers are examining biphosphonates, a family of drugs that reduce bone turnover rate. Results have been equivocal and the FDA has not yet approved the use of the agent. 10 Prevention Primary prevention through identifying those at risk and eliminating factors associated with bone loss is the most effective treatment. Nevertheless, in spite of the numerous factors listed above, there are no reliable predictors. Determination of bone density is the only sure way to determine the presence of the disease.