Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone density and deterioration of bone tissue. This leads to an increased risk of fractures, especially in the hip, spine and wrist.
Some key facts about osteoporosis:
- It affects both men and women, but women are at higher risk due to the drop in estrogen levels during menopause. Around 1 in 3 women over age 50 will experience osteoporotic fractures.
- Major risk factors include family history, smoking, low calcium intake, lack of exercise, and long-term use of certain medications like corticosteroids.
Diagnosis is made using a
bone mineral density test, which measures bone density at the hip and spine. Low bone density indicates osteoporosis or osteopenia (low bone mass).
Some ways to help prevent and treat osteoporosis include:
- Weight-bearing exercise - This stimulates bone growth. Examples include walking, jogging, tennis and stair climbing.
- Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake - Important for bone health. Food sources include dairy products, leafy greens, fatty fish and supplements.
- Medications - Such as bisphosphonates that slow bone loss, or hormone therapy with estrogen. Discuss options with your doctor.
If you're concerned about bone health, I recommend speaking with the caring doctors at
Vitality Renewal Clinic. Their individualized bone loss treatment plans utilize advanced diagnostic testing and personalized bioidentical hormone therapy to strengthen your bones and prevent fractures. Convenient telehealth visits are available. Vitality Renewal Clinic will partner with you on your path to better bone health.
In summary,
osteoporosis leads to weakened and porous bones, increasing
fracture risk. Prevention focuses on building strong bones early in life through diet and
weight-bearing exercise. Treatment aims to slow bone loss using medications and hormone/lifestyle approaches. If at risk for osteoporosis, consider scheduling a
bone mineral density test and consulting your healthcare provider or
Vitality Renewal Clinic to discuss ways to strengthen your bones and reduce fracture likelihood. Maintaining healthy bones is crucial for an active, fracture-free lifestyle.