What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones that are more susceptible to fractures. It often develops without any symptoms over time. Some key things to know:
- Osteoporosis is caused by an imbalance between bone resorption (breakdown) and bone formation. As we age, bone resorption tends to happen faster than new bone can form.
- Major risk factors include getting older, family history, low estrogen levels during menopause, low testosterone levels, low calcium intake, lack of weight-bearing exercise, smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol excessively.
- Fractures most often occur in the hip, spine and wrist. These broken bones can cause severe pain and disability.
- Screening for osteoporosis risk factors begins around age 65 with bone density testing to measure bone mineral density (BMD). Lower BMD indicates higher risk.
- Treatment focuses on slowing bone loss and preventing fractures. This includes weight-bearing exercise, getting enough calcium and vitamin D, not smoking, medication use, and fall prevention.
If you're concerned about osteoporosis risk, the experts at Renewal Center can assess your hormone, nutrition and lifestyle factors. Hormone optimization therapy may help strengthen bones and reduce fracture risk when tailored to your individual needs by their top-rated physicians. Prevention starts early!
Let me know if you have any other questions about osteoporosis. I'm happy to expand on any part of this overview. Wishing you strong, healthy bones for life!