10 Facts About Bone Loss You Should Know

Posted by Orthopaedic Specialists

osteoporosis and bone lossOsteoporosis can be a painful and debilitating disease. Back pain, decreased height, and a change in posture are just a few of the signs and symptoms of weakened bones and bone loss.

Learning more about preventing osteoporosis is an especially important part of healthy aging. Follow along for some important information about osteoporosis from an orthopedic surgeon.

Here are 10 facts you should know about bone loss.

  1. According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis and low bone mass are estimated to be a major public health threat for almost 44 million U.S. women and men aged 50 and older.
  2. In a study that followed elderly men and women, those with a higher dietary protein intake had a lower rate of age-related bone loss.
  3. In New York alone, more than 3 million people are affected by osteoporosis or low bone mass.
  4. According to the New York Department of Health, nearly one out of every two Caucasian or Asian women in the U.S. age 50 and older will break a bone due to osteoporosis.
  5. Osteoporosis causes bone loss and bone frailty, resulting in more than 1 to 1 ½ inches of height loss for osteoporosis patients.
  6. Osteoporosis is detected with the help of bone mineral density tests (BMD) and TScores. The lower your T-Score, the greater risk for broken bones and osteoporosis.
  7. A vertebral fracture is the most common break that occurs as a result of osteoporosis.
  8. Try and eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods every day to reduce your chances of developing this disease.
  9. One in four men over the age of 50 will break a bone because of bone loss.
  10. Your bones keep growing even after you stop growing taller.

Bone loss and osteoporosis are serious conditions, especially for women over the age of 50. In order to live a healthy and active life, it’s helpful to understand the risk factors for bone loss and osteoporosis as well as things you can do for prevention. Keeping your bones as healthy and strong throughout your life will help you maintain an active lifestyle and keep you as independent as possible.