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 larger. This causes the bones to lose strength and makes them more prone to fracturing and breaking.
Some key things to know about decreased bone density:
- It often develops slowly and quietly, without symptoms, so many people don't realize they have it until a minor fall or sudden impact causes a broken bone.
- As we age, decreased bone density becomes increasingly common. This is especially true for postmenopausal women due to lower estrogen levels.
- Certain lifestyle factors like smoking, low calcium intake, and physical inactivity can contribute to and accelerate bone density loss.
Diagnosing decreased bone density usually involves a bone mineral density (BMD) test such as a
DXA scan. This simple x-ray test accurately compares your bone density to the normal range. If your T-score (your bone density compared to a healthy 30 year old adult) falls between -1 and -2.5, you have osteopenia. Below -2.5 indicates osteoporosis.
The good news is decreased bone density is preventable and treatable! Here are some key steps:
- Get adequate calcium and vitamin D from foods and supplements to support bone health.
- Perform weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises regularly. Walking, jogging, tennis, and strength training with resistance bands can all help stimulate new bone growth.
- Consider medications like bisphosphonates or hormone therapy to slow bone loss, especially for high risk postmenopausal women.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol, which can inhibit optimal bone formation.
At Hormone Harmony, we specialize in personalized care plans to promote strong, healthy bones at any age. Our integrative therapies including bioidentical hormone replacement can help replenish depleted estrogen levels contributing to osteoporosis. With cutting edge DXA scan technology and holistic treatment approaches, we empower patients to take control of their bone health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our bone density experts!
I hope this overview on decreased bone density and osteoporosis gives you a helpful understanding of this increasingly common age-related bone disease. While concerning, the good news is that with proper screening and early treatment, we can take proactive steps to strengthen our bones for a reduced fracture risk and active lifestyle as we get older. Let me know if you have any other questions!