Osteopenia and Osteoporosis
Osteopenia is a condition in which there is decreased bone density. When the boss density decreases to a certain level, it is known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weak and thin due to lack of calcium or vitamin D. This condition is often referred to as the “silent disease” because people might have osteoporosis, but do not realize it. Often, people become aware of this issue after suffering a fracture.
Osteoporosis is more commonly seen in older women, compared to other demographics. In the feet, the most common site of fracture, associated with osteoporosis, is the metatarsals. These are the bones behind the toes. When this happens, there is pain, swelling, and redness at the site of the fracture.
Diagnosis:
Bone density can be measured using low levels of X-ray. It is a painless test, and takes only a few minutes.
Treatment:
The primary goal of treatment is to decrease or slow the rate of bone density loss. Treatment for mild osteoporosis is to minimize risk factors such as smoke cessation, nutritional supplementation, and suitable exercises. The more aggressive method to prevent additional bone loss is through medication.
Osteopenia is a condition in which there is decreased bone density. When the boss density decreases to a certain level, it is known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weak and thin due to lack of calcium or vitamin D. This condition is often referred to as the “silent disease” because people might have osteoporosis, but do not realize it. Often, people become aware of this issue after suffering a fracture.
Osteoporosis is more commonly seen in older women, compared to other demographics. In the feet, the most common site of fracture, associated with osteoporosis, is the metatarsals. These are the bones behind the toes. When this happens, there is pain, swelling, and redness at the site of the fracture.
Diagnosis:
Bone density can be measured using low levels of X-ray. It is a painless test, and takes only a few minutes.
Treatment:
The primary goal of treatment is to decrease or slow the rate of bone density loss. Treatment for mild osteoporosis is to minimize risk factors such as smoke cessation, nutritional supplementation, and suitable exercises. The more aggressive method to prevent additional bone loss is through medication.