Most people think of bones as hard, permanent structures, but they are actually living tissue. Throughout your life, your body is constantly breaking own old bone, and replacing it with new bone. As we age, that constant balance can shift, leading to gradual bone loss.

The Lifecycle of Bones

In different stages of our lives, bone growth changes.

• Childhood & Adolescence: Bone growth happens rapidly, with the body building more bone than it removes. This is what helps us grow!
• Young Adulthood: You reach peak bone mass, which sets the foundation for bone health later in life.
• Midlife & Beyond: Bone breakdown can start outpacing new bone formation.

What Causes Bone Loss

While aging is a natural factor that leads to bone loss, it’s not the only one. Bone loss can be sped up by a couple of things:

• Hormonal changes
• Lack of exercise
• Poor nutrition/lack of calcium and vitamin D
• Smoking and excessive alcohol
• Family history/genetics

While there are risk factors, there are typically no symptoms of bone loss until a broken bone occurs. This is why screening is so important!

How a Bone Density (DEXA) Scan Can Help

A DEXA scan offers a way to measure bone density. Then, it takes an X-Ray of your body to measure calcium, and other minerals that are packed into a bone. Using the X-Ray image, it can be determined if you have healthy bone density, need to take steps to strengthen your bones, or if you have osteoporosis.

Your Bone Health is Important, and Can Be Managed

As we age, bones naturally get weaker, but that does not mean you can’t care for them. Engaging in exercise, eating a balanced diet that includes calcium and vitamin D, and talking with your healthcare provider can ensure you minimize your risk of fractures or osteoporosis. One of the best steps you can take is scheduling a DEXA scan to get a clear picture of where you stand today!