Osteoporosis
Facts & Stats
Facts & Stats
Meaning of "osteo -porosis"
Porous Bones. The prefix ‘osteo’ is from the Greek word "osteon" meaning bone. The suffix ‘porosis’ means the condition of pores (spaces). The holes in the bone grow larger and increase in number.
Ages, races and genders most likely to get osteoporosis
Caucasian and Asian women over 50
4 Lifestyle changes to prevent or treat osteoporosis
Work with a health professional to determine the proper forms of nutrition, supplementation and exercise.
Proper Nutrition (calcium, vitamin D, and protein),
Exercise
Don't Smoke
Limit Alcohol
2 visual physical signs of osteoporosis
1. Back Pain
2. Hunched Posture or Curve in the Back
May be caused by osteoporosis
Pharmaceutical treatment for osteoporosis guidelines
Consider osteoporosis medication Only IF you have had consultation with your doctor, blood tests, DEXA scan, evaluation of your medical history, sensitivity to meds, awareness of potential serious side effects.
You may choose to consult with a complementary physician (Functional Medicine, Naturopath, Certified Nutritionist) for recommendations about quality supplements that are most effective for YOU.
'AND'
Physical Therapist (Physio) or chiropractor may also offer suggestions about whether or not (and what types) of weight vests or exercise regimen are appropriate for you.
The most serious bone fractures for older adults
Hip Fractures!
The bones most common to break due to osteoporosis
Hip, Wrist and Spine (Vertebrae).
Decrease in bone mineral density below normal reference values, yet not low enough to meet the diagnostic criteria to be considered osteoporosis
Osteopenia - this is a warning period and wake-up call to begin on an active regimen to avoid further bone loss.
Diagnostic methods for weak bones or osteoporosis
Bone Density Test (DEXA)
Lab Tests (bone loss + increased bone density
Physical Examination
Specialists who treat osteoporosis/osteopenia
Endocrinologists, geriatric physicians or rheumatologists are some of the specialists who diagnose and treat bone loss.
More than 43 million Americans have this
Osteopenia
Approximately 10 million Americans age 50 have osteoporosis.
Long term uncontrolled thyroid balance contributes to this.
Osteoporosis is often detected in patients with hypothyroid.
Two nutritious food sources for each of the following: Calcium, Vitamin D, and Protein
Vitamin D sources: Fish, cod liver oil, mushrooms, and eggs.
Calcium sources: Dairy products and canned salmon (with bones).
Protein sources: red meat, chicken and beans.
Who and at what age bone density screening
All men and women 65 can get DEXA covered by Medicare. Those who have had a broken bone or some other illnesses that may contribute to osteoporosis may be eligible for insurance coverage at earlier age.
(I recommend getting DEXA at age 50-55 for baseline and earlier prevention or treatment) Approx. $200-300
Risk factors associated with estrogen treatment
Increased risk of blood clots, endometrial cancer, breast cancer and possibly heart disease.
Consultation with your trusted medical professionals is imperative before beginning estrogen. There are numerous forms of estrogen, some safer than others.
The age when bone mass stops increasing
Near age 30!
Factors (most of these of your control) that can increase your chances of getting osteoporosis
Age, Hormonal Changes, Disease Condition, Genes, Gender, or Ethnicity.
3 benefits of physical activity
1.Reduces risk of falls and fractures
2.Improves balance, stamina, strength and posture
3. Build bone density!
Frequency of comprehensive risk assessment
Every 3 to 5 years - depending on your age, severity (osteopenia or osteoporosis) type or regimen &/or treatment.
This assessment would include a DEXA scan, lab tests and any fractures since last evaluation.
If you are taking medications or other treatment for osteoporosis, these would be monitored much more frequently.
Types of physical treatment of osteoporosis
Do not start a physical regimen on your own.
A PT (physio) can guide you to customize a program specific to you. A personal trainer who is not accustomed to working with older adults or trained in osteoporosis would not provide adequate guidance. Not all of these are appropriate for all individuals:
Resistance bands can help to strengthen muscle which builds bone.
Walking with weight vest (weights and designs vary)
Lifting free weights (gradually increasing)
Yoga, Pilates, and mild exercise that helps with balance and strengthens muscle, ligaments and bone.
It is essential to do any of the above under the guidance of a physical therapist (physio) or chiropractor or other trained health professional.
Osteoporosis is currently considered more common than these diseases.
Heart Attacks, Strokes, and Breast Cancer combined!
RISKS OF HIP FRACTURE
10% of people die within 30 days as a result of a hip fracture.
30% after one year.
Most important way to prevent bone loss
Become knowledgeable about the progression of bone loss at an early age and begin a regimen that suits your lifestyle that varies as you age.
Remain active.
Avoid SITTING!
DXA (DEXA) stands for?
Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry measures the amount of calcium and other minerals in the bone.
It shows the strength and thickness of the bones in the hips, lower spine (and optionally lower arm, heel and wrist).
This ingredient in food can drop your thyroid levels
Stay away from Gluten