- Introduction
Low bone density is a condition in which the bone mass deteriorates, and your body stops creating as much bone as it used to. When your bone density is low, you are at an increased risk for developing fragile bones which may break even after a minor injury or simple fall. In fact, more than 90% of all hip fractures are caused by a fall. Overall, about 5.7 million individuals in the United States have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, and another 34 million with low bone mass. Osteoporosis has no bias on sex or sex, however, it is more common in older adults, and in women once they’ve reached post-menopausal status. best treatment for low bone density.
Not only do fractures cause decreased quality of living, but they are extremely dangerous and are the leading cause in the death of individuals over the age of 75. Thus, it is important for anyone with brittle bones or low bone density to do what they can to sustain and/or build greater bone density. This will decrease the chances of developing dangerous, porous bones and also minimize the risk of fractures. Fortunately there are treatments for low bone density and osteoporosis and they are widely available through various healthcare providers.
- Causes of Low Bone Density
As we’re attempting to maximize bone density, it’s important for us to understand what causes low bone density. Several different factors can cause bone loss, some of which are potentially reversible. Low bone density is often considered a “silent disease” because there are usually no symptoms until one experiences a fracture. We’ve already learned that fractures are the primary adverse outcome associated with low bone density, so as its fractures are typically referred to as osteoporotic fractures, we will also discuss the impact of low bone density on osteoporotic fracture risk.
Factors contributing to low bone density are both controllable and uncontrollable. The main uncontrollable factor causing low bone density is aging, with bone loss starting around age 40. In women, bone loss is particularly rapid in the first 10 years after menopause. Adult bone mass is achieved during our early twenties, making it important to consume adequate dietary calcium from a young age. 99% of the body’s calcium is stored in bone and the body will take calcium from bone to maintain steady states of calcium in the blood if dietary calcium is inadequate.
This means that chronic low calcium intake can lead to bone loss and fractures in the long run. Calcium loss from bone is also common in patients with kidney diseases, intestinal diseases, cancers, and hormonal imbalances. A major cause of low bone density and fractures in older adults is falling. This can be due to factors such as visual impairment, dizziness, muscle weakness, cognitive impairment, and the effects of medications. We will discuss how the rate of osteoporotic fractures varies with different risk factors and what impact these fractures can have on patients. Finally, we will look at the role of immobilization and how it can lead to rapid bone loss. This is because bone is laid down in areas of high mechanical stress and is resorbed from areas of low stress. If stresses on bone decrease, bone is lost and strength is reduced. The best treatment for low bone density is available in Singapore.
- Importance of Treating Low Bone Density
The reason the diagnosis is important is that it often goes undetected for several years before a fracture occurs. Then people are treated for the fracture but not for their low bone density. There are many older individuals who have sustained a fracture and are not even aware that they have low bone density – and could benefit from treatment to prevent future fractures. A recent survey done by the National Osteoporosis Foundation showed that despite physicians agreeing on the importance of treating low bone density, less than one-third of older adults who have sustained a fracture are advised to undergo testing for low bone density.
This is in part due to the fact that a diagnosis of osteoporosis is not clearly defined. Opportunities to initiate treatment for low bone density are being missed and must be improved. This is especially important given that our population is aging and experts predict that the incidence of fractures will rise, with associated costs projected to be as high as $240 billion by 2040. Failure to address low bone density and osteoporosis will have a big impact on public health and costs in the future.
- Conclusion
What is best treatment for low bone density? Consulting with an orthopedic surgeon offers invaluable benefits, ensuring personalized care and expertise tailored to your musculoskeletal health needs. By seeking guidance from a skilled orthopedic specialist, you gain access to a wealth of knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. From comprehensive evaluations to advanced treatment options, such as surgical interventions or non-invasive therapies, consulting with an orthopedic surgeon provides a pathway to enhanced mobility, reduced pain, and improved quality of life, empowering you to regain control over your physical well-being.
