As we grow older, our bones undergo changes that can increase the risk of fractures and result in osteoporosis. These conditions might seem unavoidable since they relate to aging, but understanding your bone health can greatly benefit your long-term health and well-being.
Let’s explore why it is crucial for individuals over 50, regardless their overall physical shape, to pay attention to their bone health.
Bone is a living tissue
Over the age of 50, bone quantity and bone quality may start declining in both women and men due to several factors including:
- hormonal changes
- decreased physical activity
- inadequate nutrition
- underlying health conditions
- medication or family history
Why? Because bones aren’t just solid structures; they are made of dynamic tissues that constantly remodel. These tissues form a mesh inside the bone so we can talk about bone microarchitecture when referring to this intricate internal mesh visible at the microscopic level. Think of bone microarchitecture as the blueprint of your skeletal strength and resilience.
Overtime, the declining quantity and quality of our bones can make them more susceptible to fractures, even from minor falls or impacts. A weak bone density and bone microarchitecture can result in a bone condition called osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and fragile, making them brittle and more likely to break. It’s a common condition, especially in women after menopause and men over 50. Osteoporosis often goes unnoticed until a bone breaks. To prevent fractures, it’s important to assess your bone health. This can be done through a DXA scan at the radiologist.
Test your bone health
Currently, the Gold Standard for assessing bone health is to measure both Bone Mineral Density (BMD) and Trabecular Bone Score (TBS). These two tests give the full picture of a patient bone status:
- BMD provides valuable information about bone strength
- TBS provides valuable information about fracture risk
Both tests are performed at the same time through a Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) scan machine, at a radiology center or in any practice/hospital equipped with a DXA scan machine.
Analyzing your tests results
By analyzing the combined results of these tests, healthcare providers can develop personalized treatment plans and lifestyle recommendations to improve bone health.
The results of your tests are sent directly to your referring doctor who will explain the results to you. For Medicare beneficiaries, the DXA scan and the tests are eligible for reimbursement.
Prioritizing bone health and engaging in preventive measures can help you enjoy an active and fulfilling life for years to come.
Start the journey today by discussing your bone health personal situation with your general practitioner or endocrinologist. Your bones will thank you for it.
