If you are concerned about your bone health, bone density, or the increased risk of fracture that accompanies osteoporosis, the Wycoff Wellness Center provides a unique and comprehensive program for achieving and maintaining maximum bone health.
Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease in humans and poses a serious health threat for women and men. It is characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of the microarchitecture of bone tissue, leading to fragility of the bone and an increased risk of fracture. Osteoporosis currently affects approximately 30% of postmenopausal Caucasian women in the United States. It is estimated that 50% of the population by the year 2020 will be at risk for osteoporotic fractures. Women account for 71% of the 1.5 million osteoporotic fractures per year. The estimated treatment cost for this health concern is over 18 billion dollars per year.
There are several risk factors associated with the development of osteoporosis.
• Genetics - may be the most important factor in determining the risk of osteoporosis.
• Lifestyle choices - plays a significant role.
• Hormonal factors - influence bone mass and the rate of bone resorption.
• Smoking and alcohol have an adverse affect on bone density.
• Certain health conditions affect the body’s ability to make and maintain adequate bone quality.
• Nutrition - including foods rich in vitamin D, calcium and protein are very important.
• Physical activity with an emphasis on weight bearing exercises reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
The process of bone resorption (breakdown) and bone formation is called bone remoldeling. Osteoclasts stimulate the production of enzymes that dissolve minerals and protein in bone and thus promote bone resorption. Osteoblasts create a protein matrix primarily of collagen, resulting in remineralization of the bone, thereby promoting bone formation. Bone remoldeling is normally a balance of bone resorption and bone formation.
An imbalance between bone removal and bone replacement
results in bone loss and an increased risk of bone fracture.
The diagnosis of osteoporosis can be made with a comprehensive history and physical. A thorough review of potential risk factors will point the clinician to obtain the best diagnostic tests for you. A thorough evaluation would include a test of bone mineral density such as a DEXA bone density test. MRI and CT scans may be considered to assist in the diagnosis. A blood measurement of vitamin D is critical to help in choosing the correct amount of replacement. Markers of bone breakdown and bone formation such as urinary N-telopeptide, estradiol, osteocalcin, n-terminal propetide pro-Collagen may also help in the assessment.
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
The Wycoff Wellness Center’s approach to the diagnosis and treatment of osteopenia (early bone loss that preceeds osteoporosis) and osteoporosis is as follows:
- A detailed history with emphasis on modifiable risk factors
- A complete physical
- Obtain the appropriate diagnostic testing
- An appropriate treatment program including:
A wholesome, healthy diet
Change modifiable risks factors
An appropriate exercise program
Appropriate bioidentical hormone replacement
Cal Apatite – 3 tablets daily
Ostera – 2 tablets daily
Multigenics IC multivitamin (4-8 daily) or PhytoMulti (2 daily)
Additional supplements (based on individual needs)
Additional vitamin D (D3 2000 & 5000)
Additional mineral supplementation as needed
If you are concerned about your bone health, bone density or risk of osteoporosis, make an appointment today for an initial evaluation.
The Wycoff Wellness Center offers unique options to help you
prevent or treat osteopenia & osteoporosis naturally.
Call today and schedule your initial visit!