It is not at all uncommon for someone to break a bone unexpectedly. Not unexpectedly in the sense that they are in a serious accident, but unexpectedly in the sense that they fell from a basic standing position. How is it possible for bones to break so
easily? Most of the time the answer is a medical condition known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by a lack of bone density. Basically a person’s bones become less solid and far more brittle, making it easier for them to break. Osteoporosis is generally considered to be a “silent” disease because the symptoms can be very subtle. Many people do not realize that they are affected by it until they experience an unexpected bone fracture.
What Can We Do About Osteoporosis?
The best way to stay out in front of any medical disorder is to increase your knowledge base. Osteoporosis has some warning signs and precursors that you should be aware of. Some are uncontrollable, but as you will see many are lifestyle factors that you have complete ability to amend. You are at increased risk to develop osteoporosis if:
- You have a family history of the disorder or a personal history of multiple bone fractures.
- You smoke cigarettes.
- You use alcohol excessively.
- Your diet lacks calcium.
- You are of Caucasian or Asian descent.
- You are a senior citizen.
Aside from being aware of the common factors associated with osteoporosis, you can increase your chances of overcoming the disorder by having it diagnosed and treated early. The best way to have the disorder diagnosed is through a bone mineral density screening.
Bone Mineral Density Screening
This simple medical exam uses X-Ray technology and is called a DEXA Test. The test involves significantly less radiation than a traditional X-Ray and is pain free. You lay on a padded surface while the machinery passes over your entire body. It takes X-Rays of your body and assesses bone mass. The measurements of bone mass are then interpreted to come up with a bone density measurement. The measurement for each individual is evaluated against the bone density of an average healthy 30-year-old person. It is a numeric value called a T-Score which is interpreted as follows:
- A T-Score that falls between 0 and -1 is normal
- A T-Score that falls between -1 and -2.5 means that bone density is low and signals a condition that is called osteopenia
- A T-Score that is less than -2.5 signals osteoporosis
Bone mineral density screenings are simple tests that can help you begin treatment for osteoporosis before it even develops. They can be a cue that you need to make some lifestyle changes or begin another doctor recommended treatment plan. If you would like to schedule a bone mineral density test in or around Tamarac Florida feel free to visit University Hospital and Medical Center online or call 1-866-442-2362 for a free physician referral.
Sources:
NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Disease Resource Center
Related Posts:
The Orthopedic and Spine Institute
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