Decreased bone density

What is decreased bone density?

Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, is a common condition characterized by porous and brittle bones. This happens when old bone tissue is broken down faster than new bone tissue can be formed to replace it.

Some key points about decreased bone density:

• It typically develops slowly over several years without symptoms. Many people don't know their bones have gotten weaker until a minor fall or sudden impact causes a bone fracture


• Bone mineral density (BMD) tests, like a DEXA scan, can detect decreased bone density before fractures occur


• Major risk factors include aging, family history, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and inactivity


• Estrogen levels dropping after menopause accelerate bone loss in women


• Treatments aim to strengthen bones and prevent further bone tissue deterioration

Early screening and prevention are key! Maintaining bone density requires adequate calcium intake, weight-bearing exercise, vitamin D sufficiency, and possibly hormone therapy.

If you're concerned about your bone health, consider getting a bone density test. The expert physicians at Vitality Hormone Center provide cutting-edge preventative healthcare services, including:

• DEXA scans to assess your bone mineral density


• Custom hormone therapy plans to optimize estrogen, testosterone, etc.


• Nutrition coaching for optimal bone health


• Exercise programs tailored to your needs

Now back to discussing decreased bone density...

The condition can occur all over the skeleton, but certain bones tend to be more vulnerable. Common fracture sites include:

• Spine - Compression fractures lead to loss of height and back pain


• Hips - Breaks often require surgery and rehabilitation


• Wrists - Impacts from falls frequently break the small bones

Without treatment, bone density continues declining over time. More debilitating fractures can eventually result from minor stresses and accidents.

Who's at risk?

While decreased bone density can happen at almost any age, post-menopausal women over 50 have the highest prevalence. Other high-risk groups include:

• Seniors over age 65


• Those with a family history of osteoporosis


• People who take corticosteroids long-term


• Women with early/premature menopause

Lifestyle factors also play a major role. Lack of regular weight-bearing exercise, inadequate calcium and vitamin D, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and too little muscle mass all contribute to weaker bones over decades. Catching these issues early makes prevention much more effective!

What are the options?

If screening reveals decreased bone density, treatment plans aim to strengthen bones, reduce future deterioration, and lower fracture risk. Options may include:

• Supplements - Calcium, vitamin D, other bone-supportive nutrients


• Medications - Bisphosphonates like Fosamax, Prolia


• Hormone therapy - Estrogen/testosterone to reduce bone loss


• Healthy lifestyle changes - Nutrition, exercise, quitting smoking

Don't wait until a surprise fracture - be proactive about your bone health! Connect with the preventative health experts at Vitality Hormone Center today.