Efficacy of Comprehensive Management Protocol for Improvement of Bone Health in Elderly Osteoporotic Individuals Attending a Tertiary Care Centre Hospital in Kolkata, India

Background: Osteoporosis is a growing public health concern, especially among the elderly population in India. There is a dearth of studies evaluating the role of multimodal treatment for the improvement of bone health apart from pharmaceutical management in India. In this study, an attempt was made to improve bone health using comprehensive multimodal management, compared to conventional pharmaceutical management, specific nutrition, and diet. Methods: A total of 130 patients diagnosed with osteoporosis (T score –2.5 or below by Quantitative Ultrasound Scan, QUS), aged between 50 to 80 years, were selected for the study. All participants were receiving standard pharmaceutical treatment along with specific nutrition and diet prescribed by their treating physician. They were randomly divided into two groups of 65 each: the control group continued with standard treatment, while the experimental group received comprehensive management (including standard care, muscle-building exercises, and environmental/lifestyle modifications). Data were collected from 58 participants in each group. Bone Mineral Density (BMD) was measured via QUS at baseline on the 6th months and 12th months, with follow-up at 3 and 9 months via telephonic interview, mainly for supervision. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: At baseline, median BMD T score was –2.5 (control) vs –2.6 (experimental) (p=0.08), indicating homogeneity. At 6 months, it remained –2.6 (control) vs improved –2.5 (experimental) (p=0.02). At 12 months, the score was –2.6 (control) vs –2.5 (experimental) with p=0.001, suggesting significant improvement in the experimental group. Conclusion: A supervised, comprehensive multimodal management protocol offers a cost-effective and practical adjunct to conventional pharmacological treatment. It significantly enhances bone health and BMD outcomes in elderly patients with osteoporosis.