by Leonard Konis

Created on: January 03, 2007   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

Osteoporosis is a disease (condition) causing weakening of normal bone mass or bone deterioration. Patients with osteoporosis, their bones are more fragile to fracture because not adequately able to support weight of the body. Common fractures occur in the hip, spine and wrist. The first indication of this condition may cause dull pain in the bones or muscles, particularly low back pain or neck pain. In many cases, the diagnosis is made after a fracture. Fractures of the hip almost always require hospitalization, and surgery. The outcome various from needing some kind of assistants to walk, prolonged care, permanent disability and death. The most serious fractures of the spine or vertebrae consequently cause a loss of height, severe back pain and deformity. Two types of causes attributed to osteoporosis: Type one occurs only in postmenopausal women (Menopause: End of the ovulation and menstrual period on average between 40 - 55 years old. Postmenopausal bleeding from the reproductive system that occurs six months or more after menstrual periods have stopped due to menopause.), and due to estrogen (Hormone produced by the ovaries.) deficiency. Type two occurs in both men and women (more frequent in women than men) due to aging and calcium deficiency over many years. In the United States, estimated forty-four million Americans diagnosed with osteoporosis, and more then fifty percent are at least 50 years old. As many, seventy percent women over 80 are at risk. According to American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and National Osteoporosis Foundation, the disease attributed to one or more causes: Sixty to Eighty percent inherited, low Vitamin 'D' or calcium diet, low body weight, Excessive alcohol drinking or smoking, and related to a medical problem (Rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes or liver disease).

Bone Mineral Density (Densitometry or BMD)) test determines or confirms if osteoporosis or the risk of osteoporosis is likely to occur. The test is usually done on bones most likely to break, including lumbar vertebrae, lower region of the spine, narrow neck of the femur bone adjoining the hip, and bones of the wrist. The test measures mineral density in the bones using an X-ray, computerized tomography (CT) scan or ultrasound. Bone Density results reported in two numbers: T-scores and Z-Scores. T-Score (range: Above minus one to below minus 2.5) is standard deviation for a person sex, above or below the standard. Z-Score is the number of standard deviations above

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