{"id":95,"date":"2012-11-16T12:36:25","date_gmt":"2012-11-16T12:36:25","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.health-care-clinic.org\/blog\/?p=95"},"modified":"2012-12-16T12:38:40","modified_gmt":"2012-12-16T12:38:40","slug":"osteoporosis-diagnostic-and-medical-treatments","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.health-care-clinic.org\/blog\/osteoporosis-diagnostic-and-medical-treatments\/","title":{"rendered":"Osteoporosis Diagnostic and Medical Treatments"},"content":{"rendered":"

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones lose calcium and other minerals. There are two forms: type I, the most common, occurs in postmenopausal women or younger ones whose ovaries have been removed; type 2, or senile osteoporosis, develops in both men and women, usually after age 75. The decline of estrogen, the major female sex hormone, plays a major role in type I. Up to half of all American women over the age of 45 have some degree of type I osteoporosis. Such bone loss is especially pronounced in the first decade following menopause. Other risk factors linked to osteoporosis include cigarette smoking, heredity, and being thin, fine boned, and of Asian or northern European extraction. Symptoms generally begin with mild back pain, which worsens as the vertebrae become compressed, caused by tiny crush fractures that afflict about one third of women over age 50. Compression of the spinal column also leads to height loss and a deformity commonly called dowager’s hump. Wrist and hip fractures are common.<\/p>\n

Diagnostic Studies And Procedures<\/h2>\n

Standard X-rays can detect decreased bone density of the vertebrae, but only after 25 to 40 percent of calcium has been lost. Bone density studies, such as single photon absorptiometry, dualenergy absorptiometry, and quantitative computed tomography, provide earlier and more accurate assessments of bone density, but are costly. A scanning technique called X-ray densitometry is less expensive and is gaining wider use.<\/p>\n

Medical Treatments<\/h2>\n

Treatment can usually slow bone loss, and sometimes even reverse it. The earlier that treatment begins, the more likely it is to increase bone density. One or more of the following drug treatments may be combined with the alternative therapies discussed below.<\/p>\n

Postmenopausal estrogen replacement therapy <\/strong><\/p>\n

lowers the incidence of vertebrae and hip fractures. It is most effective when started within four to six years after menopause . calcitonin, a thyroid hormone that regulates calcium metabolism and inhibits the loss of calcium from bones, shows promise as a drug to halt osteoporosis; it may also increase bone density. Although the hormone must usually be administered by injection, a newer form, calcitonin nasal spray appears to be equally effective. Etidronate (Didronel), a drug first used to treat Paget’s disease, another bone disorder, is under study as a treatment for osteoporosis. Research suggests that it can increase vertebral density and reduce the risk of fractures. Tamoxifen (Nolvadex), <\/strong>an estrogen\u00adblocking drug used for treating breast cancer, also appears to prevent osteoporosis; how it works is unknown. In addition, several promising new drugs are being used experimentally; these include alendronate, a drug that decreases bone demineralization.<\/p>\n

Alternative Therapies<\/h2>\n

Exercise and Physical Therapy<\/strong><\/p>\n

Bones are constantly being rebuilt, a process that requires a certain amount of stress. Thus, walking and other weight bearing activities are key components of any treatment program. If you already have osteoporosis, a physical therapist can develop an exercise regimen and teach you how to use your body more efficiently to reduce the risk of fractures. Also helpful are an orthopedic support, heat, and gentle massage.<\/p>\n

Nutrition Therapy<\/strong><\/p>\n

Calcium and vitamin D are essential to building and maintaining bones. The best dietary sources of calcium are low fat milk and milk products; canned sardines and salmon with bones; and certain green leafy vegetables such as broccoli and kale. However, beet greens, spinach, and other vegetables high in oxalates bind to calcium and prevent its absorption. Too much bran or other high fiber food also hinders absorption of calcium, while citric acid enhances it. Experts recommend that post menopausal women get at least 1,500 milligrams of calcium a day, especially if they are not taking estrogen or are over age 65. For most women, this means adding supplements. Calcium citrate and calcium carbonate are the most absorbable forms; many brands are combined with vitamin D, which the body needs in order to absorb calcium. Dolomite and bone meal are not recommended because they sometimes contain lead and other contaminants.<\/p>\n

Self Treatment<\/h2>\n

Preventive self care measures include:<\/p>\n