What is the best way to treat osteopenia?

What is the best way to treat osteopenia?

There are various treatment methods (medications, hormone replacement therapy, healthy lifestyle changes) that are commonly used to protect bone mass, slow the progression of osteopenia, alleviate related symptoms, and prevent the development of osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates are the most common medications prescribed to prevent osteopenia.

When to take a bone density test for osteopenia?

Fractures or broken bones are the biggest indicator that there may be a skeletal bone abnormality. If an adult over age 50 falls from a standing height and breaks a bone, a bone density test should be done to screen for osteopenia and osteoporosis. Even those with osteopenia can be at risk for fractures.

Who is the best endocrinologist for osteopenia?

Dr. Jessica Starr is an endocrinologist at HSS, with particular interests in women’s reproductive health, bone health and the impact of type 2 diabetes on the skeleton. She is board certified in both endocrinology and internal medicine.

How are bisphosphonates used to treat osteopenia?

Because osteopenia is caused by a rapid loss of bone that surpasses the generation of bone, bisphosphonates are effective measures for preventing osteopenia or slowing down its progression.

When does osteopenia occur in the human body?

Osteopenia has two causes. The first is a failure to reach one’s peak bone mass, which is the maximum amount of bone a person is genetically programmed to build in her lifetime. Peak bone mass is typically reached by age 20 in men and age 30 in women. The second cause is a loss of bone once a person has reached peak bone mass.

Is it inevitable to have osteoporosis or osteopenia?

Osteopenia — or seeing it turn into osteoporosis for that matter — is not inevitable. Diet, exercise, and sometimes medication can help keep your bones dense and strong for decades. Who Is Most Likely to Get It? This condition happens when your body gets rid of more bone than it is creating.

How can you tell if you have osteopenia?

Osteopenia does not have any apparent symptoms. Without undergoing an x-ray or test to determine bone density levels, it can be difficult to tell whether this condition is present. Bones fracture easily: A person who has osteopenia may fracture bones very easily, as bone density is low, causing bones to be considerably more weak or thin.