Osteoporosis can lead to fractures, especially in the wrist,
spine, and hip. Spine and hip fractures can be very debilitating
and actually increase the risk of death from complications.
Osteoporosis can occur in both men and women. However, it's much
more common in women -- especially after menopause. Therefore, the
National Osteoporosis Foundation suggests initial osteoporosis heel
screening of the following groups of postmenopausal women:
- All women over 65 years of age.
- Postmenopausal women over age 50 with one or more risk factors,
including any bone fracture after age 40, fracture related to
osteoporosis in a first-degree relative, current smoking, and
weight less than 127 pounds.
Screening for Osteoporosis are performed at the Women's Center at
Macy's and the Women's Center at The Medical Park. This is a
screening that will indicate if you are at risk of osteoporosis.
Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). DEXA uses two different
X-ray beams. The amounts of each X-ray beam that are blocked by
bone and soft tissue are compared to estimate the bone density.
DEXA is the most accurate method for measuring BMD. It is fast and
uses very low doses of radiation. DEXA measures BMD on bones of the
spine and hip. Under good conditions, DEXA can measure as little as
two percent of bone loss per year. DEXA Scans are performed at
the Women's Center at The Medical Park.
Osteoporosis Self-Management Course
The Lima Memorial Physical Therapy department offers an
Osteoporosis Self-Management Course. Those diagnosed with
osteoporosis or osteopenia, the early form of the disease, will
benefit from this all-inclusive educational course.
The Osteoporosis Self-Management Course consists of eight
sessions. Each session begins with a physical therapist, nurse,
dietitian and/or pharmacist giving a 60 minute educational
presentation including a question and problem solving session. A
physical therapist or physical therapist assistant then conducts an
exercise session where individuals learn how to exercise safely,
strengthen muscles, improve balance and increase bone density. The
class starts at 9:30 a.m. and ends at 12 p.m. The physician will be
contacted for a referral after pre-registration. For more
information call 419-998-4544.