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Manager
of the clinic, Lois Wisenberg, a certified Dexa Technologist
explains how all men and women are at risk of developing osteoporosis.
"Everyone from an early age should take action to protect
their bones".
1.
What causes osteoporosis?
Bones
are made up of living tissue which are being constantly broken
down and renewed. As we get older osteoporsis develops when
the amount of bone renewal is less than the amount of bone
being broken down, resulting in a thinning of the bones. This
can lead to skeletal shrinkage, chronic pain, loss of mobility
and fatigue.
2.
Am I at risk for osteoporosis?
While
men can get osteoporosis, post-menopausal women are most likely
to be affected. Oestrogen production, which plays an important
role in maintaining bone strength, slows after menopause.
3.
Are there treatments for osteoporosis?
Bone
loss can be slowed by consuming a diet rich in calcium and
performing weight bearing exercises. Additionally, within
the last few years, several drugs have been approved which
can stop bone loss and reduce fractures in those people most
prone to fractures,
4.
How can I check for osteoporosis?
If there
is concern for osteoporosis, a bone density test is recommended.
The results of this test, combined with your medical history,
will help to decide if you have osteoporosis.
5.
How is bone density testing done?
There
are several methods of assessing bone density. The Dexa Bone
densitometry is the most detailed test and assess the bone
density at both the hip and the spine.Another device is an
ultrasound of the tibia which gives an indication of bone
thickness.A new device called the MetriScan has a very low
radiation dose and estimates bone density in your fingers.
The bone density in your fingers is related to the bone density
of your other bones.
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