How to Manage Osteopenia

Osteopenia is not osteoporosis; but it is a sign that you are at risk of developing osteoporosis. Most patients are unaware that they have osteopenia until they break a bone and require testing. Osteopenia simply means that your bone density is below normal. It is most frequently found in postmenopausal women and in people over 65. However, men are also at risk. You should have tests, such as a dexa scan test, performed if you have a family history of osteopenia or osteoporosis, or if you are part of the risk groups mentioned above.

Instructions

• 1

  Take calcium supplements daily. You should also increase your food intake of foods rich in Vitamin D. These foods include diary products such as milk, cheese, and egg yolks, as well as meats such as beef, liver and fish such as salmon and tuna. You can also take fish liver oil supplements. A more common source of Vitamin D is sunlight; however, it is recommended that you avoid ultraviolet sun rays, which can cause skin cancers.

• 2

  Perform weight bearing exercises. These exercises include step aerobics, using a stationary exercise bike, speed walking and some forms of dancing. However, you should not perform exercises that involve running, jogging or jumping, as this may put you at risk of falling, and thus getting injured.

• 3

  Reduce your chance of having a fall in your house; you can do this by removing safety hazards within your home. You should have your vision checked regularly to ensure you are using the correct eye glass prescription. You should have your ears checked for infections, as they can hinder your balance.

• 4

  Keep your weight at a healthy level. You can talk to your doctor about what is considered a normal weight for your height/weight proportion. Eating right and exercising regularly can help you maintain this healthy weight.

• 5

  Talk to your doctor about bone-building medications. Bone-building medications are available on the market, and have helped patients with osteopenia. Talk to your doctor about finding the right medication for you.