Decreased bone density - Vitality Health Center

What is decreased bone density?

Bone density refers to the amount of bone tissue in a certain volume of bone. It is an important indicator of bone strength and fracture risk. As we age, bone density naturally decreases due to changes in hormone levels and age-related bone loss (osteoporosis). This makes the bones more porous, brittle and susceptible to fractures.

Some key facts about decreased bone density:

• It is often diagnosed using a bone mineral density (BMD) test like a DXA scan. This measures the grams of mineral per square centimeter of bone.
• A T-score from a BMD test compares your density to that of a healthy 30 year old. Scores between -1 to -2.5 indicate osteopenia (low bone mass), while scores below -2.5 indicate osteoporosis.
• Major risk factors include aging, family history, hormonal changes, low calcium intake, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and inactivity.
• Decreased density leads to vertebral compression fractures, hip fractures, wrist fractures, and more. These often require hospitalization and surgery.
• Fractures significantly impact quality of life. They limit mobility and independence and increase mortality risk.
• Estrogen and testosterone help maintain bone density. After menopause, women rapidly lose bone mass due to declining estrogen. Low testosterone in men has a similar effect.

To prevent bone loss, it's important to build strong bones while young through exercise and nutrition. As we age, maintaining bone health requires:

• Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake
• Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise
• Fall prevention
• Not smoking, limiting alcohol, and avoiding certain medications
• Bone density screening starting at age 65

If you already have osteoporosis, medications like bisphosphonates can help slow bone loss and stabilize bone density. But they cannot completely restore lost bone mass. That's why early screening and preventive care are key.

The specialists at Vitality Health Center provide comprehensive osteoporosis evaluation and treatment. We offer bone density scans, risk assessment, customized nutrition plans, prescription medications, and lifestyle coaching. Our holistic approach helps you build strong, fracture-resistant bones for life. Schedule a bone health consultation today and take control of your bone density. Healthy bones are happy bones!