Osteoporosis

Osteopenia

Osteopenia is a condition that is often a precursor to osteoporosis. Those who suffer from this condition have bone mineral density that is lower than standard but is not low enough to be considered osteoporosis. Those who are diagnosed with osteoporosis have a bone mineral density of greater than 2.5 of the standard measurements. Those who have lower bone density but who are not at this level are often diagnosed with osteopenia.

Like osteoporosis, osteopenia primarily affects older women. This is due to a loss of bone mineral density that normally comes with age, although other factors can contribute to this condition as well. By the time someone is 30 years old, their bone mineral density is at its peak and the bones are as thick as they are going to be. After this age, the bone cells begin to decrease. The decrease in bone mineral density can lead to osteopenia and eventually to osteoporosis.

In addition to age as well as diet factors, such as a lack of calcium and vitamin D, other contributory factors to osteopenia include the following:

Radiation exposure
Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia
Chemotherapy treatment
Heredity

The symptoms of this condition are very mild. The bones gradually lose density over a period of time. It is recommended that those who are at a greater risk for osteoporosis should get a bone mineral density test that can detect bone loss. The best test when it comes to detecting this condition so that it does not lead into osteoporosis is the DEXA scan, an imaging test that can detect small amounts of bone loss per year. Women who are at a risk for this condition should start taking this test at the age of 60.

Osteopenia Treatment

Those who are diagnosed with this condition should seek out osteopenia treatment. The treatment for this condition is similar to the treatment for osteoporosis. Osteopenia treatment includes eating a diet that is high in calcium enriched foods such as fatty fish, broccoli, low fat milk and yogurt as well as avoiding lifestyle behaviors and foods that can cause bone loss. Some of the things to avoid when you are seeking osteopenia treatment include:

Alcohol
Caffeine
Red meats
Soft drinks such as colas that are high in phosphates
Smoking

In addition, osteopenia treatment also includes a regular exercise program that consists of exercises that are weight bearing to strengthen bones. xercises that should be used when you are seeking osteopenia treatment include the following:

Walking
Dancing
Hiking
Aerobics

Before you begin any exercise program for osteopenia treatment, you should speak to your doctor to make sure that you are physically fit for these exercises. Most doctors will recommend walking as an excellent form of exercise that can not only help you treat this condition, but also help you avoid getting osteoporosis.

In addition, you should take a calcium supplement that is recommended by your physician as well as a supplement of Vitamin D when you have this condition. Medications that are on the market as well as hormone replacement therapy are generally not recommended by physicians as an osteopenia treatment.