An Introduction to Bone Density

Bone Density is a popular term in correspondence to orthopedics. In this blog post, you will learn about bone density and the tests done to determine it.

what-is-bone-density

We are getting health conscious by the day. We realize the importance of looking and feeling good. So much so that weight loss programs are taking the world by storm as we worry about how we look and how the world looks at us. But, have we ever given special attention to the system that holds us together? Our skeletal system enables our body to build strength in turn paving the way to carrying out daily chores without any discomfort or weakness. It is safe to say that strong bones are one of the important keys to good health. Unfortunately, people are oblivious to the various nuances of orthopedic care and they continue to neglect it to alarming limits. This blog post is an attempt to educate the public on the concept of bone density and how you can keep a track on it.

What does bone density mean?

                Bone density, otherwise known as bone mass, is the amount of bone mineral in a particular volume of bone.  This determines how strong your bones are. The lower your bone density, the weaker your bones will be. Weak bones can hinder your ability to carry out daily activities and chores. Even something that requires minimal effort can appear to be a challenge as weak bones can cause pain. Bone density needs to be nurtured from a very early age. Children and adolescents today do not get the right amount of calcium and vitamin-D required to strengthen bones. The intake of the right diet complemented with adequate physical activity is what will build your bones. However, with age, the bones tend to lose mass and this is very evident in women post their menopause.

To combat the weakening of bones, ensure that you get your daily dose of calcium and vitamin-D. There are several calcium-rich foods besides milk that you can mix up into your diet. Calcium and vitamin-D supplements are available as well. In terms of exercise, any form of weight-bearing physical activity will do a great deal of good to your bones. Weight-bearing exercises are those that make you work against gravity. Some of them are hiking, dancing, jogging and weight-training.

What is bone density measurement?

                Bone density measurement is a clinical procedure similar to an X-ray that is a direct indication of osteoporosis as well as fracture risk. It is a non-invasive procedure; involving no pain. In simple words, it gives a picture of your bone health. The test basically measures the density of bone mineral and compares it to an established standard. This explains how far or close you are to good bone health. It also gauges how well your bones are responding to osteoporosis treatment, if you are already undergoing it.

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An ongoing test at one of SPOT Hospital’s free bone mineral density test camps.

Bone density tests are mandatory for women over the age of 65 as they are more prone to osteoporosis. Others who exhibit one or more risk factors of osteoporosis should also take the test. If you want to know more about this deadly disease, read our blog post on Osteoporosis and how to  prevent it. To develop strong bone dynamics, start early and start strong. It is never too late. Knowing your bone strength will only help you make necessary lifestyle changes to prevent more bone loss. If you care about yourself, you would work on building stronger bones. After all, bones are the foundation of the entire body.

 

An Introduction to Bone Density

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