Decreased bone density - Hormone Wellness Clinic

What is decreased bone density?

Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, is a condition where the bones become weaker and more porous over time. This leads to an increased risk of fractures and broken bones.

Some key facts about decreased bone density:

• It is very common, especially in older adults. Over 200 million people worldwide have osteoporosis.
• Women are at higher risk after menopause due to lower estrogen levels. But men can get it too.
• The most commonly affected bones are in the spine, hips, and wrists.
• Major risk factors include aging, family history, smoking, low calcium intake, and lack of exercise.

How does it develop?

Bone is living tissue that is constantly being renewed. New bone is made by cells called osteoblasts, while old bone is removed by cells called osteoclasts.

In youth, the rate of bone formation is higher than removal. But as we age, this balance shifts and more bone is removed than replaced. This leads to a gradual loss of bone mass and strength over time.

Other factors like hormonal changes, poor nutrition, and inactivity can accelerate bone loss. Over time, the bone becomes thin and brittle, like a sponge.

What are the symptoms?

In the early stages, osteopenia and osteoporosis usually have no obvious symptoms. You may not know your bones are getting weaker until you suffer a painful fracture or break from a minor fall or bump. Common osteoporotic fractures occur in the:

• Spine - This can cause back pain, stooped posture, and loss of height.
• Hip - Often requires surgery and rehabilitation. Can lead to disability.
• Wrist - Typically causes severe pain and swelling.

Other general symptoms include:

• Chronic aches and pains in bones and joints
• Poor posture and stooping

If you have any of these issues, see your doctor for an exam and bone density test. The earlier it's caught, the better.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and order a bone mineral density (BMD) test. This special x-ray scan measures bone thickness in various sites, usually the hip and spine.

Results are given as a T-score. Scores between -1 and -2.5 indicate osteopenia or mild bone loss. Scores below -2.5 signify osteoporosis or advanced bone thinning.

Your doctor may also order blood tests to check for nutritional deficiencies and disorders that affect bone health.

What is the treatment?

The main goals of treatment are to slow further bone loss and prevent fractures. Options may include:

• Weight-bearing exercise - Activities like walking, jogging, tennis and strength training help stimulate new bone growth.
• Calcium and vitamin D - Supplements to support bone health.
• Medications - Bisphosphonates like Fosamax help inhibit bone breakdown.
• Healthy lifestyle - No smoking, limited alcohol and caffeine, balanced diet.
• Fall prevention - Safety measures at home like handrails, proper footwear.
• Hormone Wellness Clinic - Our balanced bioidentical hormone therapy can help replace declining estrogen and testosterone levels that lead to osteoporosis. Schedule a free consultation today!

The earlier osteoporosis is caught, the more can be done to strengthen bones and prevent fractures. If you have risk factors or concerns about your bone health, see your doctor for evaluation and a DXA scan. Safeguard your mobility and independence by taking action before serious damage occurs!