Spinal Inflammatory Arthritis and Osteoporosis

Some patients with spinal inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, have lower bone density or mass. Certain medications, such as steroids, increase the risk of osteoporosis. Prednisone, a systemic corticosteroid, actually stops intestinal calcium absorption and causes more calcium to be passed during urination. Immunosuppressant drugs may also promote bone loss.

To help prevent bone loss, discuss osteoporosis awareness and prevention steps with your doctor or healthcare practitioner:

• Learn your bone mineral density score by undergoing a DEXA scan
• Calcium and Vitamin D supplementation
• Don't smoke
• Exercise regularly (In outdoor sunshine is an added bonus because it is a source of Vitamin D!)
• Eat healthily

Spinal Inflammatory Arthritis Glossary