Understanding Osteopenia vs Osteoporosis

When it comes to bone health, two terms often come up: osteopenia and osteoporosis. While they sound similar and are both related to bones, they are different with distinct conditions. Having an understanding of their differences can help in early detection and prevention. In this blog, we will be going over both conditions and their differences. 

What Is Osteopenia? 

Osteopenia is a condition where the bone density is lower than normal but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. It is typically considered a midpoint between a healthy bone and osteoporosis. People who find themselves with osteopenia are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis if they do not take preventative measures.  However, not everyone who is diagnosed with osteopenia develops osteoporosis. 

What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a more severe condition in which bones become extremely weak and brittle.  It occurs when bone mass and strength decrease to the point where fractures are more likely, even from minor falls. Osteoporosis is known as a “silent disease” as it typically does not show symptoms until a fracture occurs, usually found in the hips, spine, or wrists. 

Key Differences

1. Bone Density Levels - The primary difference is in the bone density measurement. A bone density scan (DEXA Scan) gives a T-score: 

• Normal T-score: Score of -1.0 or above

• Osteopenia: T-score between -1.0 and -2.5

• Osteoporosis: T-score of -2.5 or lower

1. Fracture Risk - Those with osteoporosis have a significantly higher risk of fractures compared to those with osteopenia. While osteopenia can still increase the likelihood of fractures, osteoporosis has a heightened increase. 

2. Symptoms -  Osteopenia generally has no symptoms, while osteoporosis can lead to fractures, height loss, and even hunched posture due to spinal compression fractures. 

Causes and Risk Factors

Both osteopenia and osteoporosis share similar risk factors, including: 

• Aging: Bone loss naturally occurs with age, particularly after the age of 50. 

• Hormonal Changes: Women who are going through menopause experience a decrease in estrogen, which accelerates bone loss. 

• Poor Nutrition: A diet of low calcium, vitamin D, and protein can leave your bones vulnerable. 

• Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol use, and other lifestyle choices can contribute to bone loss. 

• Medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids and other drugs can negatively 

• impact bone density. 

Prevention

While Osteopenia and osteoporosis can not always be prevented entirely, the following strategies can help you maintain strong bones: 

1. Increasing your calcium and vitamin D intake can help keep your bones strong and healthy. Dairy products, leafy greens, fortified foods, and supplements are also great options. 

2. Activities like walking, jogging, resistance training, and even yoga can help maintain your bone strength. 

3. Avoid smoking and regular drinking to ensure that you do not accelerate the loss of your bone health. 

4. Regularly monitoring your bone health and getting scanned is a great way to catch any early signs and stay ahead of decreases in health!

5. In case of osteoporosis, doctors may recommend or prescribe medication such as bisphosphonates to slow bone loss.

Know The Difference With The Help of Osteo Scan

Osteopenia and osteoporosis are both serious conditions that you should be aware of. Knowing the signs and risk factors is just part of the equation! Stay on top of your bone health with the help of our team at Osteo Scan. We offer scans both in-house and at our remote locations! Contact us today to schedule your next scan.