Osteopenia vs. Osteoporosis: Understanding Your Bone Health

When it comes to bone health, two terms often arise: osteopenia and osteoporosis. While they both involve a decrease in bone density, they refer to different stages of bone health and carry distinct implications for prevention and treatment that are important to understand in order to maintain bone integrity as you age. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Osteopenia?

Osteopenia simply means a loss of density that causes weakness in bones. While this condition itself does not usually lead to symptoms, it does indicate a higher risk for fractures and further bone loss and is also considered to be a precursor to osteoporosis. 

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is more severe than osteopenia. This disease decreases bone density so significantly that a minor fall or a bump against your kitchen counter can result in a fracture. Other symptoms may include bone pain and loss of height and mobility, but many people are unaware of this change in their bones until a fracture occurs. 

Risk Factors

• Age- bone density naturally decreases are we get older

• Gender- a decrease in estrogen levels in postmenopausal women can cause a decrease in bone density

• Family history

• Diet- low calcium and vitamin D levels can negatively impact bone health

• Smoking 

• Medication -long-term use of certain medications can contribute to a decrease in bone density

Tips for Prevention and Management

Osteopenia and osteoporosis can be prevented and managed by certain behaviors such as:

• Weight-bearing exercises and strength training 
• Adopting a well balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Supplementation
• Bone density screenings
• Medication 

It is important to reduce the risk of developing osteopenia or osteoporosis or slow their progression by following these tips to promote bone health. Talk to one of our providers about your bone health, especially if any of the risk factors apply to you, to ensure that you can maintain a healthy, active lifestyle for years to come!