Osteoporosis Diagnosis and Tests

Osteoporosis

Every year, osteoporosis causes about 8.9 million fractures. According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (www.iofbonehealth.org/facts-statistics), by the year 2050 50% of all osteoporotic hip fractures will occur in Asia. This is partly due to inadequate diagnosis and treatment, even in the most high-risk patients who have already had a fracture.

Submitted by PatientsEngage on 12 October 2015

What tests do I need to have done

The doctor may recommend some of the following :

DEXA Scan (Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry): This is a type of bone densitometry test commonly used for osteoporosis, which measures bone mineral density. It usually focuses on the spine and the hip or on total bone density to gauge fracture risk.

Know more on Dexa Scan or Bone Scan

Blood test markers: Blood or urine tests check the chemical processes occurring within the bone. These tests reveal several markers -enzymes, proteins and other substances circulating in the body - that provide clues to your condition.

Related: What does my blood report mean?

Changed

12/Jan/2019

Community

Muscle, Bone and Joint (earlier named Arthritis)

Condition

Osteoporosis

Stories

Prevention of Osteoporosis

You can take steps to prevent osteoporosis by making a few changes to your diet, getting enough exercise, and considering whether the available medication is right for you. Speak to your doctor about the following: • Calcium • Vitamin D • Exercise. Read more about The Right Exercise for Osteoporosis • Hormone replacement therapy • Medication (Fosamas, Evista etc) Screening The National Osteoporosis Foundation (www.nos.org.uk) recommends bone mineral density testing…
Osteoporosis Treatment

Treatment of osteoporosis may include combination of therapies based on level of bone loss aiming to slow down bone loss and strengthen the existing bone tissues. The most important part of treating osteoporosis is preventing bone fractures. Pharmacological treatment: 1. Adequate amounts of calcium (1500-1800 mg daily) and vitamin D (400-800 IU). Calcium can be increased through diet and/or calcium supplementation. 2. Antiresorptive medications…
Management of Osteoporosis

For healthy bones, you need to do the following: Dietary changes: Adequate Calcium Intake: • Consume calcium-rich foods such as dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), leafy green vegetables, tofu, almonds, and cereals. • Aim for the recommended daily intake of calcium, which varies depending on age and gender but typically ranges from 1500 to 1800 mg per day for adults. Sufficient Vitamin D Intake: • Ensure adequate vitamin D levels (…
Osteoporosis

is a common condition, usually seen in the elderly, of diminished bone mass and low bone weight, which leads to fragile bones. Bones are living tissue constantly being broken down and rebuilt by the body. During childhood and youth, you form new bone faster than you lose old bone. Between the ages of 18 and 30, you reach peak bone mass. As people age, bone loss increases. Osteoporosis occurs when the body doesn’t create enough new bone to keep up with the absorption or…