Osteoporosis

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Osteoporosis becomes more prevalent with age, with women facing a higher risk than men. This chronic and progressive bone disease is characterized by the gradual decline in both bone density and quality.

As the bones become porous and fragile, their strength diminishes, increasing the likelihood of fractures. It's noteworthy that osteoporosis often remains asymptomatic until a fracture occurs, typically affecting areas like the hip, spine, and wrist. This condition underscores the importance of bone health and the need for preventive measures, especially as we age, to reduce the risk of fractures and maintain overall skeletal well-being.

Understanding Osteoporosis

The primary cause of osteoporosis is an imbalance in the normal bone remodeling process. Bones undergo a constant cycle of resorption (breakdown) and formation (rebuilding). In osteoporosis, bone resorption outpaces bone formation, resulting in decreased bone density and strength.

Osteoporosis compromises the structural integrity of bones, making them susceptible to fractures, even with minor traumas or falls. The most common fractures occur in the hip, spine, and wrist. Hip fractures, in particular, can have severe consequences for older individuals, often leading to a loss of independence.

Understanding osteoporosis is the first step towards effective prevention and management. Regular bone density assessments, a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercises, and lifestyle modifications can all play pivotal roles in maintaining strong and healthy bones. Early detection and appropriate interventions are crucial to reduce the risk of fractures and enhance overall bone health.

Risk of Osteoporosis

Several factors contribute to the development of osteoporosis, including:

• Age: The risk increases as you get older.
• Gender: Women are more susceptible than men.
• Hormonal Changes: Menopause in women and reduced testosterone in men can accelerate bone loss.
• Family History: A family history of osteoporosis can elevate your risk.
• Nutrition: Inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake can weaken bones.
• Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle can lead to bone loss.
• Smoking and Alcohol: These can negatively impact bone health.
• Certain Medications: Some drugs can contribute to bone loss.

There are many disorders and conditions that can increase your risk of osteoporosis, including:

• Celiac disease
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Diabetes
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Leukemia and lymphoma
• Low testosterone in men
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Parkinson’s disease
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Sickle cell disease
• Stroke
• Thyroid disorders
• Weight loss

Bone Density Assessments

Bone assessments, also known as bone density tests or scans, are essential tools in the early detection, diagnosis, and management of osteoporosis. These assessments provide crucial information about the density and strength of your bones, helping to identify the risk of fractures and guiding appropriate interventions.

• Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA): DXA scans are the most common and widely used method for assessing bone density. This painless and non-invasive test measures bone mineral density (BMD) at specific sites, such as the hip and spine, and compares it to the average BMD of a young, healthy population.
• Other Imaging Techniques: While DXA scans are the gold standard, other imaging techniques like quantitative computed tomography (QCT) and peripheral DXA can also provide valuable insights into bone health.

Osteoporosis Care in North Dakota

It is estimated that one-half of all women and one-quarter of all men will break a bone due to osteoporosis. Should you discover early signs of bone loss, there are a large number of nonsurgical options available to you, including medications. It's best to work with an orthopedic doctor to manage the progression of the condition early on than to risk fractures in the future.

For more information about your risk of osteoporosis and what you can do to prevent it, call The Bone & Joint Center at (701) 946-7400 or visit our appointment request page to learn more.