Decreased bone density

What is decreased bone density?

Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, occurs when the struts and plates that make up bone tissue become thinner and the spaces between them grow wider. This causes the internal structure of bones to become less dense and subsequently lose strength.

Some key points about decreased bone density:

• It often develops without symptoms until a fracture occurs


• It is usually caused by an imbalance between bone resorption and formation


• Risk factors include aging, genetics, sex hormones, menopause, low calcium, vitamin D deficiency, and lifestyle factors like smoking and low physical activity

Diagnosis is made using a bone mineral density (BMD) test, which uses X-rays to measure the amount of mineral packed into a segment of bone. The lower the BMD, the higher the risk of fracture.

Treatment aims to prevent further bone loss and fractures. It often involves weight-bearing exercise, getting enough calcium and vitamin D, not smoking, medication like bisphosphonates or hormone therapy, and fall prevention.

Decreased bone density is often called osteopenia or osteoporosis. It increases fracture risk.

• Key risk factors:
  
  
  • Aging
  
  
  • Menopause
  
  
  • Lifestyle factors like smoking
  
  


• Can be diagnosed using bone mineral density tests


• Treatment aims to prevent further bone loss and fractures through:
  
  
  • Weight-bearing exercise
  
  
  • Calcium and vitamin D intake
  
  
  • Medications
  
  
  • Fall prevention
  
  

Get your bone health screened today! The osteoporosis experts at Vitality Hormone Clinic provide comprehensive bone health evaluations and personalized treatment plans involving nutrition, supplements, exercise, and hormone therapy. Give us a call to start optimizing your bone density and strength!