OSTEOPOROSIS
As we age, the thickness of our bones decreases—we ALL lose bone density. It may be one reason why you notice you are getting shorter.
Population and research studies often use a ‘normal distribution or Bell curve' to tell us where we are when compared with other people in our age group.
Whether we are measuring IQ, height or weight, or ‘almost’ anything, 77% of people are within a certain range of the Bell curve. There are people at either end of the curve—very short-or very tall; overweight or very slim (in comparison with the norm).
A bone density test is called a bone densitometry, and it measures the thickness of our bones.
Measurements are usually taken at the hip, in the lumbar spine, and sometimes at the wrist.
If you are one standard deviation (% away from the norm), you have what is referred to as OSTEOPENIA.
If you are 2 standard deviations away from the norm, then you have OSTEOPOROSIS (OP).
Because osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes weakness in the structure of the bone, there is more risk of fractures, and 'pain' can become a problem.
Fractures are more common in weight-bearing joints in the spine—usually in the mid-thoracic to low-back region. Fractures can occur 'spontaneously’ (no specific cause) or as a result of even minor trauma, like a fall.
A healthy lifestyle is important to keep bones strong.
Low levels of physical activity (exercise), long periods of inactivity, heavy drinking of alcohol, and being a heavy smoker can contribute to the severity of osteoporosis.
Post-menopausal women and any person (male or female) with a family history of osteoporosis should have a bone densitometry test to provide a ‘baseline’ measurement (where are you starting from?).
Diagnosis is essential, and medical management may be recommended.
Posture, balance, and strengthening exercises (especially for the spinal region) are important.
Implementing safety measures (to avoid slips and falls) as well as good nutrition is essential.
Unrelated to aging, loss of bone density—osteoporosis—can be caused by other medical conditions. People with auto-immune diseases, including arthritis, should be monitored by their family physician.
To learn more about osteoporosis;
