One of the main Diagnostics tests that Hollywood Diagnosticss Center offers is the bone density test/scan. This test is done using a specialized form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone mineral density. A bone density scan is most often recommended to assist healthcare providers in diagnosing osteoporosis.
What is Osteoporosis?
A person with osteoporosis has weakened bones that are more likely to break. And although the condition is not reversible, there are things that people can do to prevent further bone loss and rebuild bones. It will require medication, a nutrient heavy diet, and exercise.
Bones consist of living tissue, and as these tissues break down, the body discards them and creates new ones to replace them. When a person has osteoporosis, there is a disruption to this balance. It can be hastened by one of three things. People start losing lose too much old bone. People don’t create enough new bone, or both.
Osteoporosis gradually progresses over a number of years, A doctor diagnoses osteoporosis using a bone density scan in people at an increased risk of the condition.
Can You Reverse Osteoporosis?
In some cases, a person may be able to reverse osteoporosis. Some strategies can prevent future bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures. And certain medications may help a person rebuild bone mass, essentially reversing osteoporosis.
There are several ways a person can prevent bone loss. These include eating a nutritious diet, doing regular exercise, taking calcium and vitamin D supplements, avoiding excess alcohol and smoking, and minimizing steroid use.
1 – Eat a Nutritious Diet
Eating a varied, nutrient-dense diet is important for bone health. It is especially important to include foods rich in vitamin D and calcium. Vitamin D increases calcium absorption, so the two supplements are most effective when people take them together.
Although calcium and vitamin D is most commonly associated with strong bones, they are not the only nutrients that contribute to bone health. An osteoporosis study found that fruits, vegetables, seafood, and dairy products are beneficial for healthy bones.
2 – Take Supplements
If a person has osteoporosis, they may benefit from taking calcium and vitamin D supplements. An analysis of osteoporosis studies found that people who took these supplements were 15% less likely to have bone fractures.
It is important to include calcium and vitamin D from food sources. Dairy products are good sources of calcium. People can get vitamin D from trout, salmon, and mushrooms. They can also get it from small amounts of sun exposure.
3 – Exercise Regularly
Weight-bearing exercise and resistance training are essential for maintaining bone density, especially as people get older. Because bones are made of living and changing tissues, they respond to change. When under stress, for example, during exercise, they react by building more bone tissue.
A benefit, in addition to maintaining bone density, regular exercise can strengthen a person’s muscles and improve coordination, reducing their risk of falls. Whether you jog, walk, climb stairs, or lift weights, all can help reduce risks.
4 – Avoid Excessive Alcohol & Smoking
Quitting smoking altogether and reducing alcohol intake are both associated with healthier bones. In general, avoiding these also lowers a person’s risk of other illnesses.
So, if you live in South Florida, or specifically the city of Hollywood, and are in need of a Bone Density Scan, or any medical imaging, then call the Hollywood Diagnosticss Center today! Medical professionals are ready to assist you with all of the tests and procedures that you need to get your health in order. All of the staff is friendly and ready to answer any questions you have regarding any medical imaging technologies and procedures. Call the Hollywood Diagnostics Center at Phone: (954) 966-3600 today!