Osteoporosis - Rejuvenate Wellness

Osteoporosis: Understanding, Preventing, and Treating Bone Loss

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue. This leads to increased bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture. Osteoporosis most commonly affects the spine, hip, and wrist.

Some key facts about osteoporosis:

• It is often called a "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without symptoms. People may not know they have it until a fracture occurs.
• It is more common in women due to the rapid bone loss that occurs after menopause. However, men can also develop osteoporosis.
• Key risk factors include getting older, family history, being female, low body weight, certain medications, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake.

Bone density scanning using a DEXA scan is the most effective way to diagnose osteoporosis and determine fracture risk. This simple and painless scan measures bone mineral density (BMD).

T-score	Interpretation
-1.0 and higher	Normal
-1.0 to -2.5	Low bone mass (osteopenia)
-2.5 and lower	Osteoporosis

There are several important treatment and prevention strategies for osteoporosis:

• Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise can help build and maintain bone mass. Walking, jogging, and strength training are great options.
• Adequate calcium (1000-1200 mg/day) and vitamin D (800-1000 IU/day) intake is essential. Dairy products, leafy greens, nuts and supplements are good sources.
• Fall prevention helps reduce fracture risk. This includes balance training, clearing hazards at home, and wearing proper footwear.
• Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol is recommended, as these accelerate bone loss.
• There are effective medication options that slow bone loss, including bisphosphonates (alendronate, risedronate). Talk to your doctor.

Prevention Strategies	Treatment Options
Weight-bearing exercise	Bisphosphonates
Adequate calcium and vitamin D	Hormone therapy
Fall prevention measures	Denosumab
Healthy lifestyle changes	Teriparatide

The alarming reality is that 1 in 2 women and 1 in 4 men over 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis. But with early detection and proper treatment, its impact can be reduced.

If you're concerned about your bone health, visit Rejuvenate Wellness for bone density testing and customized osteoporosis management. Our compassionate doctors utilize the latest medical advances to build strong, fracture-free bones for life. With a proactive approach to bone health that includes lifestyle modifications and personalized treatment plans, osteoporosis can be effectively managed, allowing you to maintain an active, independent lifestyle well into your golden years.