Bones are not just made when you are young and stay the same throughout life. They are constantly being broken down and repaired on a microscopic level. Osteoporosis, or thin bones, occur when more bone is broken down than repaired.

Strong bones are made when the body has a sufficient supply of calcium, phosphorus and Vitamin D. These are found in foods such as milk and dairy. Body hormones, like estrogen, testosterone, calcitonin, calcitriol, and thyroid hormone are responsible for managing the strength of your bones.

Generally, medications do not cause osteoporosis. However, if you have taken steroids, phenytoin (Dilantin), carbamazepine (Tegretol), Phenobarbital, or valproate (Depakote) for a long period of time, then you are at risk.

Men over the age of 60, underweight people, those with a family member who has had a non-traumatic fracture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many groups of people are at a higher risk to have osteoporosis.

High risk: women who have been through menopause or have low estrogen levels.

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Who can get osteoporosis?

Are other people at risk for this condition?

Do medications cause osteoporosis?

How do bones work?

How will I know if I have osteoporosis?

There are few symptoms of osteoporosis until one actually develops a fracture. Sometimes, a person loses height or shrinks over time due to loss of height of the spine. Others may develop a “hump” due to a rounding of the back called kyphosis. Not all fractures cause pain, though.

How can I have my bone density tested?

By getting a DeXa scan. A DeXa scan is a type of specialized X-Ray. It is painless and only takes about 5-10 minutes. The parts of the body that are analyzed are your spine, hips and forearms.

Will I have to take medicine?

It depends on the result of the DeXa scan. The scan will be given a score, known as a “T score”.

A score of 0 to 1: normal. Continue to take supplements and perform weight bearing exercises.

A score of (-)1 to (-) 2.4:osteopenia. Bones are thin, but not thin enough to be called osteoporosis. Medication is needed to prevent further bone loss.

A score less than (-) 2.4: osteoporosis. Medication is needed to improve bone density and prevent bone loss.