Your providers at AWHDallas will make sure your bones are part of your health priorities.
Have you ever used the expression, “I can feel it in my bones” when you’re sure of something?
Some people can feel changes in their joints with changes in the weather, and there have been studies that show barometric pressure does affect our bodies, particularly with conditions such as arthritis.
Bone health might not be on the top of your list as you’re making healthy lifestyle choices, but it’s important to keep in mind as your body ages. Our bones rebuild themselves through a process called resorption as new bone is added to the skeleton. As we get older, the rate of resorption slows and, as a result, osteoporosis can occur.
The National Osteoporosis Foundation describes osteoporosis as a bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both. As a result, bones become weak and might break from a fall, or in serious cases, from sneezing or minor bumps.
Being female puts you at risk of developing osteoporosis. Women tend to have smaller, thinner bones than men and are therefore more susceptible. Also, when estrogen drops as you reach menopause, bone loss becomes more likely. Here are some statistics from the NOH:
- Of the estimated 10 million Americans with osteoporosis, about eight million, or 80 percent, are women.
- Approximately one in two women over age 50 will break a bone because of osteoporosis.
- A woman’s risk of breaking a hip is equal to her combined risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer.
When to Get a Bone Density Test
A bone density test estimates the amount of bone in your hip, spine and sometimes other bones in your body. This is the only test that can diagnose osteoporosis before a broken bone happens. Are you postmenopausal? Have you broken a bone? If so, give us a call or contact us through our patient portal, and we will be happy to discuss your bone density testing options.
If you are a candidate for a bone density test, we have many convenient locations to choose from and flexible scheduling options.
Remember that a strong house starts at the foundation. The same can be said for our bodies. As you continue to take care of yourself physically and mentally, don’t forget your bones. Next time you “feel it in your bones,” you might just be right!
