Yesterday’s medical term Tuesday attracted multiple questions about osteopenia versus osteoporosis and also prevention/treatment possibilities. Osteopenia and osteoporosis are related conditions that both concern bone loss or decrease in bone quality. If you compare them to our South Florida summer weather osteopenia is like a tropical storm and osteoporosis is like a hurricane. Someone with osteopenia is more likely to fracture a bone than someone with normal bone density but less likely to fracture a bone than someone with osteoporosis.
Osteopenia and osteoporosis have multiple causes which can include:
hormonal changes (decreased estrogen or testosterone with aging)
excessive alcohol consumption
small framed people
medications (particularly corticosteroids)
chronic inflammation (rheumatoid arthritis)
Treatment for osteopenia and osteoporosis:
Treatment typically includes lifestyle modifications to increase calcium uptake into the bone as well as potential prescription medication that increases bone density if the person is at a high risk of fracture in the next 10 years. These risk factors are reviewed by the person’s physician looking at past medical and family history to determine on a case-by-case basis possible pharmaceutical intervention.
800 IU for women over 71
600 IU for women under 71 and men
1200 mg for women over 50 and men over 71
1000 mg for women under 50 and men under 71
limit alcohol consumption to less than 2 drinks per day
just stop its bad for everything!
Weight-bearing exercise: at least 30 minutes daily
*NOT swimming or bicycling
If you already have osteoporosis avoid excessive bending or twisting and high impact exercises without qualified supervision.
The good news is that frequently, bone loss can be slowed or stabilized with lifestyle changes or medication if necessary. If you have more questions about osteoporosis or other conditions send us a message. If you are looking for a specific exercise program call or stop by and we can help you design something that fits your needs and goals while protecting your bones.