EP185: Osteoporosis vs. Osteopenia: Understanding, Preventing, and Treating Bone Loss

"Smoking or having more than two alcoholic drinks per day can contribute to bone loss."

—Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN

WHAT IS OSTEOPENIA AND OSTEOPOROSIS?

 

Losing height and bone density are serious health concerns that often go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred.

 

With 40 to 50 million Americans living with osteopenia or osteoporosis, the impact of these conditions is widespread and profound. Height loss and weakened bones can lead to severe consequences, including fractures and reduced quality of life. 

 

In this episode, we will explain bone health, identify key signs, and symptoms, and provide resources to help you prevent these silent diseases by maintaining stronger bones.

 

IDENTIFY THE CONDITIONS

 

Osteopenia is a condition where bones are less strong than they should be but not as weak as experienced in osteoporosis. 

 

Osteoporosis is a more severe condition where bones become brittle and weak, making them more susceptible to fractures.

 

RECOGNIZE THE SYMPTOMS

 

Osteopenia often has no symptoms and is usually discovered during routine bone density tests or after a fracture. 

 

Osteoporosis may be identified with any broken bone due to a minor fall, loss of height, back pain, and rounding of shoulders caused by a bending over posture. 

 

KNOW THE RISK FACTORS

 

The development of osteopenia and osteoporosis is influenced by so many things like age, hormonal changes, diet, lifestyle, and medical conditions. Bone density increases until the age of 25 and then starts to drop slowly with more significant loss starting around age 35. Hormonal changes, particularly in women post-menopause, can accelerate bone loss. A diet lacking in calcium and vitamin D, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption also increase the risk.

 

DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT

 

Diagnosis involves bone density tests (DEXA scans), medical history reviews, and physical exams. Blood and urine tests can also help identify underlying conditions that contribute to bone loss.

 

Management includes lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and in some cases, medication. Key strategies include getting enough calcium and Vitamin D through the food we eat or supplements if need be. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods are good sources of such nutrients. It is important to engage in weight-bearing exercises as well as strength-training exercises for maintaining bone density. Practice balance and flexibility exercises to prevent falls. Factors such as avoiding smoking and minimizing alcohol intake are very significant as well. Also, monitoring and managing health issues like Hypothyroidism, diabetes, autoimmune diseases; being cautious about long-term use of certain drugs can affect bone health.

 

TREATMENT OPTIONS

 

Depending on the severity of bone loss, treatment may include supplements like calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium. Medications such as bisphosphonates, hormone replacement therapy, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and parathyroid hormone analogs can help strengthen bones and prevent fractures. Professional support from healthcare providers specializing in integrative or functional medicine can help uncover and address underlying causes of bone loss.

 

By understanding and addressing osteopenia and osteoporosis, you can take proactive steps to protect and strengthen your bones. Remember to consult with healthcare professionals and explore trusted resources to support your bone health journey.

 

RESOURCES AND SUPPORT

 

For further information and support, consider resources like the Bone Coach Podcast hosted by Kevin Ellis, available on Apple Music, and the Save My Thyroid Podcast hosted by Dr. Eric Osansky, also on Apple Music. 

 

@OsteoStrong is a national chain offering specialized exercise programs for bone health.

 

Join AgeWiseU to find and get all of my handouts and related content on Alzheimer’s disease and more at MelissaBPhD.com/join 

 

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About MelissaBPhD

 

Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience caring for older adults and their families. 

 

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