What is osteoporosis? How is it diagnosed?
Osteoporosis is a common bone disorder seen especially in the aging population and post-menopausal women. However, it is becoming more common in younger women and older men. Osteoporosis results from an imbalance in the natural process of bone remodelling – a continuous cycle for bone formation and bone resorption (bone breakdown). Osteoporosis is where a reduction in the bone density and degeneration of bone structure causing bone weakness and increasing the risk of fracture. Reduced bone mineral mass is the major contribution factor to osteoporotic fractures. Bone mineral density (BMD) determines bone strength and is a common measured quality of bone. The DEXA scan is the optimal method for an osteoporosis diagnosis using bone densitometry. It is defined as a BMD T-score less than or equal to -2.5 at total hip, femoral neck or lumbar spine in postmenopausal women or men over 50 years. Presence of fracture is also a clinical diagnosis of osteoporosis. Unfortunately, some people only discover they have osteoporosis until they have back pain or a fracture. A BMD DEXA scan may need to be discussed next time you visit your GP for a checkup. As a naturopath, prevention is the key.
Symptoms:
- Back pain, caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra
- Gradual loss of height
- Being stooped
- A bone fracture that occurs much more easily than expected
Risk Factors
- Age from 50 years
- Female
- Menopausal women
- Premature menopause, surgical menopause
- Smoker
- Genetic Factors – Parental, family history of hip fracture, osteoporotic fractures
- Long-term use of glucocorticoids
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Alcohol intake (more than 2 per day)
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Low levels of physical activity
- Cortisol excess
- Osteopenia (decreased bone density but not an osteoporosis diagnosis)
Dietary Factors:
- Low calcium and high phosphorus intake
- High protein diet
- Low protein diet
- Diet high in acid ash
- High salt intake
- Trace mineral deficiencies
- Sugar
- Soft drinks
- and….
- Poor digestive function
Pathology Testing
Integrative pathology testing may be utilised with osteoporosis cases at ABee Health to identify deficiencies and to establish a focused targeted protocol.
Dietary and lifestyle recommendations together with personally formulated nutraceuticals such as minerals, herbs or phytochemicals to support and manage your osteoporosis diagnosis. As a naturopath, I can also recommend protocols to reduce your risks.
Contact Alison at ABee Health for an appointment for your individualised personal treatment protocol in my clinic.
Alison at ABee Health may cross refer to General Practitioners, Osteopaths, Chiropractors and Exercise Physiologists to achieve optimal care and results for my clients where required.