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 2 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.
