Osteoporosis is a chronic condition that predominantly affects older adults, particularly postmenopausal women. It is characterised by the weakening of bones, making them fragile and more susceptible to fractures. Often referred to as a “silent disease,” osteoporosis progresses without noticeable symptoms until a bone fractures.
The primary cause of osteoporosis is an imbalance between new bone formation and old bone resorption. Various factors can contribute to this imbalance, including:
- Bone density decreases naturally with age.
- Reduced levels of oestrogen in women and testosterone in men can accelerate bone loss.
- A family history of osteoporosis can increase the risk.
- Inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D.
Osteoporosis is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specialised tests:
- A DEXA scan measures bone mineral density and helps assess the risk of fractures.
- Blood and urine tests evaluate levels of calcium, vitamin D, and other markers related to bone health.
- X-rays and CT scans can help identify fractures and bone abnormalities.
A DEXA scan produces a ‘T-score’ comparing an individual’s bone density with a healthy young adult of the same gender.
A T-score of -1.0 or above is considered normal, between -1.0 and -2.5 indicates osteopenia (low bone mass), and a score of -2.5 or lower signifies osteoporosis.
Understanding and monitoring your T-score can help you make informed decisions about prevention and treatment strategies for maintaining bone health.
From an exercise perspective, weight-bearing activities like walking, dancing and climbing stairs are helpful; resistance exercises using weights or bands strengthen muscles and support bone health; balance and flexibility exercises like Tai Chi and yoga reduce fall risk by improving stability.
Bone Health NZ has produced this handy assessment if you would like to know where you stand: https://www.knowyourbones.org.nz