The word osteoporosis means “porous bone,” a suitable description for a disease that causes the bone to deteriorate. It is often referred to as the “silent disease” because it typically does not produce any noticeable signs or symptoms until a bone fracture occurs.
Your bone tissue constantly reabsorbs old cells and produces new cells to maintain strength and density. New bone cell production typically outpaces old cell reabsorption into young adulthood, when most people achieve peak bone mass.
After this point, bone loss outpaces bone growth. In some individuals, this bone loss occurs to a greater extent, causing the bones to become weak and brittle. This condition is known as osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is more common in women than men. It’s estimated that 50% of women and 20% of men over the age of 50 are at risk of an osteoporosis-related fracture.
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Osteopenia, also referred to as low bone mass, is the stage before osteoporosis. It means your bone density is lower than normal but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. While not all osteopenia progresses, it does signal a need to take preventive action through diet, exercise, and possibly medication.
The most common fractures associated with osteoporosis typically occur in the hip, spine, and wrist. These areas are particularly vulnerable due to the stress they endure during everyday activities. When bones are weakened, even a minor fall or bump can lead to a serious injury.
Osteoporotic fractures can result in:
Fractures due to osteoporosis can significantly impact your quality of life. That’s why early detection, prevention, and ongoing management are so important.
While some bone loss is a natural part of aging, several risk factors, both biological and lifestyle-related, can increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis. Understanding these factors is the first step toward prevention and better bone density health.
Some causes of osteoporosis are out of your control, but being aware of them can help you take proactive steps to protect your bones:
Certain medical conditions and treatments can interfere with bone strength and regeneration:
Fortunately, many causes of osteoporosis stem from modifiable behaviors:
You may not be able to change your biology, but you can take control of your habits. If you’re concerned about your risk or currently managing a medical condition that may affect your bones, your Moreland OB-GYN provider can guide you with personalized prevention and treatment options.
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For something so debilitating, osteoporosis can be stealthy. Typically, there are no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. You could be living with osteoporosis for many years without realizing it, which is why it’s often called the “silent disease.”
Osteoporosis may be suspected due to symptoms like:
Routine bone density screening and awareness of your risk factors can help catch osteoporosis early, before a serious injury happens.
A Bone Density test is the only way to diagnose low bone density and osteoporosis. Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) is a quick and painless test that can help detect early bone loss associated with osteoporosis before it causes a fracture. The lower a person’s bone mineral density, the greater the fracture risk.
A bone density test is used to:
A Bone Density Test is usually taken from the lower spine, hips, and occasionally the forearm. The test is measured using a T-score, which indicates the amount of bone density you have compared to that of a young adult of the same gender with peak bone mass. The higher your T-score, the better. Having a higher score means your bones are stronger, denser, and less prone to breakage. The lower a person’s T-score or bone mineral density, the greater the risk of having a fracture or developing osteoporosis.
Bone density tests are generally for women 65 and older and are especially important if you have a family history of low bone density or factors that put you at high risk for bone loss. Regardless of your sex or age, your doctor may recommend a DXA if you’ve:
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While some risk factors for osteoporosis, such as age and family history, cannot be changed, there are many steps you can take to help prevent the disease or slow its progression.
Adopting healthy habits, such as the ones listed below, early in life and continuing them through menopause, is key to protecting your bones.
Remember, osteoporosis prevention is always easier than treatment. Whether you’re in your 20s or 30s or menopausal, taking proactive steps now can reduce your risk for fractures later in life.
Calcium is the most important nutrient for bone health. It is recommended that women over the age of 50 consume 1,200 mg of calcium daily. To get your daily dose and fight Osteoporosis, add these calcium-rich foods to your diet:
Vitamin D also plays an essential role in helping your body absorb calcium, so consider incorporating foods like fatty fish or taking supplements as needed.
Remember, these foods shouldn’t just be a focus if you are diagnosed with Osteoporosis. The earlier you incorporate them into your eating habits, the better you can decrease your risk of developing Osteoporosis.
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Eating well isn’t enough to prevent bone loss. Certain exercises help, too.
The best types of exercise for preventing and managing osteoporosis are weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.
Some examples of beneficial exercises for bone health include:
When your bones are weak, you have to be careful during physical activities. Before you begin a new exercise program, consult a physician and get medical clearance. They can help you start slow and create a smart exercise plan.
Keeping up with your OB-GYN annual exams, even after you are done having children, is the best way to stay on top of your health and talk about any preventive measures you can take to limit your odds of developing Osteoporosis.
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Unfortunately, there is no cure for osteoporosis, but you can slow its progression and avoid serious injuries. If you have osteopenia, discuss an appropriate health regimen with your Moreland OB-GYN provider to promote better bone density. If you already have osteoporosis, you can still prevent fractures and improve bone health with the proper care plan and medications.
Fall prevention is important for reducing the risk of osteoporosis-related fractures. The International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD), shares some tips:
At Moreland OB-GYN, we understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the risks and realities of osteoporosis. While we do not offer bone density testing at our clinics, we’re proud to serve as a trusted resource for women looking to understand, prevent, and manage this condition.
Whether you're approaching menopause, concerned about family history, or simply want to make healthier choices for your future, our caring providers are here to:
Knowledge is a powerful first step. Schedule your next appointment at Moreland OB-GYN to discuss your concerns and take a proactive approach to your long-term health.
