Taking good care of our bones is important because they act as the body’s support system. Think of them as the strong frame that holds up the body’s essential parts. Our bones help us stand, move around, and perform our daily tasks. Eating food with calcium, like milk and cheese, and getting vitamin D from sunlight helps our bones stay strong. When we do activities like running or dancing, it helps improve our mobility as well. As we grow older, our bones become weaker with age. It’s very important to look after our bones from a young age by eating right, staying active, and avoiding risky activities like smoking. Taking care of our bones gives our body a strong foundation for a healthy and active life.
As we get older, our bones can become weaker and less dense. This is a big concern because our bones may break easily. This is dangerous, especially for older individuals who have other pre-existing musculoskeletal conditions. When our bones aren’t as strong as they used to be, it can be linked to low bone density. Low bone density may be a sign that we are susceptible to developing a condition called osteoporosis. Luckily, there are strategies to help our bones stay strong as we age. It’s a good idea to consult an orthopaedic surgeon for check-ups and bone density tests to diagnose any problems early and take steps to keep our bones strong and healthy. The best treatment for low bone density would depend on the advice and recommendation of your orthopaedic surgeon.
(image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-sick-elderly-man-lying-down-on-sofa-8900016/)
Low bone density is a common issue that can lead to osteoporosis, which makes your bones weak and brittle. People who have low bone density are susceptible to fractures, which can lead to even more complications. Several factors can cause low bone density, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and hormones. It’s good to be aware of these factors and try to stay healthy to keep your bones strong.
Having low bone density can make your bones weak and susceptible to fractures and other injuries. Even the simplest tasks like lifting objects may be difficult for those with this condition. This is especially risky for areas like the wrists, hips, and spine. If you develop low bone density in your wrists, it can lead to deformities and difficulties in doing simple tasks. Hip fractures can lead to being bedridden, which can lead to even more health problems. When your spine is affected by low bone density, it can lead to poor posture and even spinal fractures. Low bone density is not something that should be taken lightly. It can have severe consequences and complications to your overall health. It is not something that will heal by itself.
(image source: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/hip-fractures/)
Usually, people realize they have low bone density when they get a fracture. An orthopaedic surgeon may request that you undergo a special X-ray called a DEXA scan. They’ll primarily examine your spine and hip because those are the areas often affected by this condition. You may also undergo a blood test for calcium and vitamin D levels. With the results of these tests alongside a medical interview, your orthopaedic surgeon can properly diagnose your condition.
There is no way to completely reverse the effects of low bone density, but there are treatment options that can help alleviate symptoms and improve your mobility:
If you’re getting treatment for osteoporosis, it is recommended to get regular bone density check-ups to keep tabs on your progress and condition.
(image source: https://creakyjoints.org/living-with-arthritis/complications/inflammatory-arthritis-osteoporosis/)
When dealing with osteoarthritis, the goal is to manage the pain and symptoms. If the initial lifestyle changes and medications don’t do the trick, there are other options. If you don’t seek treatment for your osteoarthritis, it can make the cartilage in your joints break down. This causes more pain and discomfort, which can affect your daily lifestyle. In serious cases, people can lose their ability to walk on their own. This can also raise the risk of infections like urinary or respiratory infections. Additionally, immobility due to osteoarthritis can cause skin sores, while a sedentary lifestyle can lead to blood clots in your legs. You should book a consultation with your orthopaedic surgeon to get screened for low bone density. Early diagnosis can help prevent complications and maintain your mobility and quality of life.
You can reach out to The Orthopaedic & Pain Practice for treatment. We can diagnose musculoskeletal conditions and suggest a treatment plan to slow down your bone deterioration. Our team is dedicated to helping patients regain mobility and improve quality of life.
To diagnose low bone density, doctors often use a DEXA scan, which is a special X-ray. Blood tests to check calcium and vitamin D levels may also be performed.
Yes, lifestyle changes like eating food rich in calcium and vitamin D, doing weight-bearing exercises, quitting smoking, and moderating alcohol intake can help improve low bone density.
Activities with a high risk of falling or impact, like high-impact sports or heavy lifting, should be approached with caution if you have low bone density.
Early detection and treatment of low bone density can help prevent fractures, maintain mobility, and improve overall bone health.
Make the most of your appointments with a low bone density specialist by preparing questions, discussing your concerns, and following their recommendations for lifestyle changes and medications.
There is no best treatment for low bone density. It typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and medical interventions as recommended by an orthopaedic surgeon. This may include medications like bisphosphonates, hormone therapy, or supplements to improve bone density.
Treatments for poor bone density can include:
Medications: Such as bisphosphonates and calcitonin to strengthen bones.
Calcium and Vitamin D supplements: To ensure adequate nutrient intake.
Weight-bearing exercises: To stimulate bone formation and improve strength.
Lifestyle modifications: Such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption.
Yes, treatments specifically for osteoporosis may include:
Hormonal therapies: Such as estrogen replacement therapy for postmenopausal women.
Bone-building medications: Like teriparatide or denosumab.
Regular monitoring through DEXA scans to assess bone density changes.
It is recommended to have regular check-ups with your orthopaedic surgeon, especially if you are at risk for osteoporosis or have already been diagnosed with low bone density. This may include periodic DEXA scans to monitor your condition.
Dr. Yong Ren graduated from the National University of Singapore’s Medical faculty and embarked on his orthopaedic career soon after. Upon completion of his training locally, he served briefly as an orthopaedic trauma surgeon at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital before embarking on sub-speciality training in Switzerland at the famed Inselspital in Bern.
He underwent sub-specialty training in pelvic and spinal surgery, and upon his return to Singapore served as head of the orthopaedic trauma team till 2019. He continues to serve as a Visiting Consultant at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital.
Well-versed in a variety of orthopaedic surgeries, he also served as a member of the country council for the local branch of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (Trauma) in Singapore. He was also involved in the training of many of the young doctors in Singapore and was appointed as an Assistant Professor by the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. Before he entered the private sector, he also served as core faculty for orthopaedic resident training by the National Healthcare Group.
Dr Yong Ren brings to the table his years of experience as a teacher and trainer in orthopaedic surgery. With his expertise in minimally invasive fracture surgery, pelvic reconstructive surgery, hip and knee surgery as well and spinal surgery, he is uniquely equipped with the tools and expertise necessary to help you on your road to recovery.
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