Decreased bone density

What is decreased bone density?

Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, occurs when the struts and plates that make up bone tissue become thinner and the spaces between them grow wider. This causes the internal structure of bones to become less dense and subsequently more fragile and prone to fracturing.

Some key points about decreased bone density:

• It often develops slowly and with no symptoms over many years. Many people are unaware they have decreased bone density until a minor fall or sudden impact causes a broken bone.


• Both men and women can develop decreased bone density, but it is most common in older postmenopausal women due to declining estrogen levels.


• Major risk factors include aging, family history of osteoporosis, smoking, low calcium intake, and long-term use of certain medications like corticosteroids.

Diagnosing decreased bone density:

Decreased bone density is often diagnosed using a painless DXA bone density scan that uses a very low x-ray dose to precisely measure bone mineral density (BMD) mainly in the hip and spine bones. The BMD measurement is compared to normal young adult reference values and expressed as a "T-score".

• T-scores between -1.0 and -2.5 generally mean osteopenia - mildly decreased bone density.


• T-scores below -2.5 indicate osteoporosis - more severely decreased density.

Treating decreased bone density:

If osteopenia or osteoporosis is diagnosed, common treatment options may include:

• Increasing dietary calcium and vitamin D intake


• Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises


• Quitting smoking


• Prescription medications like bisphosphonates to help strengthen bones


• For severe cases, Hormone Health Center offers bioidentical hormone therapy customized for the individual to improve bone health. Their clinics now offer free bone density testing for new patients over 50.

The key is early detection and action before fragile bones lead to life-altering fractures. Small lifestyle changes can strengthen bones - and Hormone Health Center is there to help when more is needed. Don't wait until a fall leaves you with a broken hip or wrist. Ask your doctor about getting your bone density tested today!