Around the age of 65, we are instructed that we need a “bone density scan” to protect against osteoporosis, but there’s a few questions to ask: what is osteoporosis? What is a bone density scan? Am I at risk for osteoporosis? Are there ways to treat osteoporosis?

            To begin, we must understand the anatomy of our bones. Bones are organs composed of a hard outer layer with soft inner tissue and marrow [1]. They are reinforced with calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium to create a strong matrix that allows for structural support, movement, and organ protection. Other important roles of our bones include storing minerals for normal metabolism and producing blood cells [2].

            Osteoporosis is a disease of decreased bone density and strength, leading to an increased risk of fractures, postural deformities, pain, and a decreased ability to perform daily activities. Osteoporosis is best diagnosed by measuring your bone mineral density through a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (or dexa) scan. A dexa scan gives you a “T-score” as a measurement of your bone mineral density, in which a score of -1 or higher is healthy. Any scores below -1 indicate either osteopenia (less severe osteoporosis) or osteoporosis [3].

            Risk factors for osteoporosis include being female, being of older age, being underweight, being White or Asian, family history, postmenopausal hormone changes, a low calcium and vitamin D diet, certain medical conditions and medications, and a sedentary lifestyle [4]

            Now that you know what osteoporosis is and how it’s diagnosed, how can you treat it? Here are a few options:

• Eating a well-balanced diet full of calcium, vitamin D, and protein (low-fat diary, vegetables, fish, calcium-fortified foods)
• Quitting smoking and drinking only in moderation
• Engaging in regular weight-bearing exercises like walking and strength/resistance training
• Talking to your primary care provider about certain medications
• Minimizing fall risks at home and in the community

For any further questions and to create a plan to prevent or manage your osteoporosis, come to one of our offices in Woodbridge, Scotch Plains, or South Plainfield for exercise therapy and education regarding this condition!

[1] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/anatomy-of-the-bone

[2] https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/bones

[3] https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/bone-mineral-density-tests-what-numbers-mean#:~:text=If%20your%20T%2Dscore%20is,lower%2C%20you%20might%20have%20osteoporosis.

[4] https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoporosis

Made by Jarred Tolley, PT, DPT