Osteoporosis is a condition that affects many of us. It gradually becomes more common as we age but can also occur in those who are younger with osteoporosis-associated conditions. But what can we do about it?
Firstly lets look at what osteoporosis is.
Osteoporosis is a condition that develops slowly over several years. It causes a weakening of bones and therefore an increased risk of fractures. Osteopenia is a decrease in bone mineral density that is not yet bad enough to be categorised as osteoporosis.
So what causes osteoporosis?
Although a loss of bone mineral density is common throughout life, one of the main factors that speeds this up is menopause. Unfortunately this means that women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men.
Other common causes and disorders linked to osteoporosis are:
- Long term use of oral corticosteroids
- A low body mass index
- Heavy drinking/smoking
- Genetics
- Celiac Disease
- Parathyroid conditions
So how is osteoporosis diagnosed?
A DEXA scan measures bone mineral density. Your results will then be measured against those of a healthy young adult and against someone of your own age. The deviation between the two will generate what is known as a T score.
Your T score results can be assessed as follows:
- above -1 is normal
- between -1 and -2.5 is defined as a decreased bone mineral density compared with peak bone mass
- below -2.5 is defined as osteoporosis
So how is osteoporosis treated?
Many factors have been found to help those with osteoporosis:
- Exercise
- Vitamin D supplements
- Stopping smoking and reducing alcohol intake
- Eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D.
To read further about exercises that benefit those with osteoporosis, please go to the pinnacle posture blog located here: https://www.pinnacle-posture.com/blog