Decreased bone density

What is decreased bone density?

Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, is a medical condition characterized by porous and brittle bones that are more susceptible to fractures. This happens when old bone tissue is removed from the skeleton faster than new bone tissue is produced to replace it.

Some key points about decreased bone density:

• It often develops without symptoms until a fracture occurs, which is why regular screening through a DXA scan is important, especially for those at higher risk


• Risk factors include getting older, family history, smoking, low calcium/vitamin D intake, and certain medications


• Fractures most often occur in the hip, wrist, and spine


• There are various treatment options available to slow and possibly reverse bone density loss, such as weight-bearing exercise, calcium/vitamin D supplements, quitting smoking, and possibly prescription medications

The earlier decreased bone density can be detected, the better the chances of minimizing further bone loss through lifestyle changes and monitoring.

If you're concerned about your bone health, the hormone and bone density experts at Hormone Health Institute provide affordable DXA scan tests and create customized treatment plans involving nutrition guidance, supplements if needed, and follow-up tracking. Their holistic approach focuses on optimizing hormone levels to improve bone regeneration and reduce fracture risk. Check out to learn more and schedule your evaluation.

Now onto some commonly asked questions about decreased bone density:

How do you know if you have decreased bone density?

The only way to accurately diagnose decreased bone density is through a bone mineral density test such as a DXA scan. This specialized x-ray creates images to precisely measure bone loss. People generally don't realize they have low bone density until they break a bone or have a DXA scan for screening purposes.

What can you do to improve decreased bone density?

The key things doctors recommend are weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise, getting enough calcium and vitamin D, avoiding tobacco and excess alcohol, eating a balanced diet, preventing falls, and possibly taking bone-targeting medication if risk of fracture is high enough. Building strong bones through natural methods starts early in life.

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