Metabolic Bone Disease and Health

What is metabolic bone disease?

Metabolic bone disease refers to abnormalities in bones caused by a broad spectrum of disorders. Most commonly, abnormalities of minerals such as calcium, phosphorus or vitamin D cause these disorders. Some of these disorders have a genetic basis. Metabolic bone disorders include conditions such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, rickets, hypophosphatemia, and Paget’s disease of bone.

What is the most common type of MBD?

The most common form of metabolic bone disorder is osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by a decrease in bone mass and density resulting in brittle, fragile bones that are more susceptible to fractures. The condition most commonly affects elderly women. Osteoporosis related fractures are more common at the hips, wrists, or vertebral bodies of the spine. Osteoporosis is called a “silent disease,” because a majority of patients are unaware of their condition until they develop a bone fracture.

How is metabolic bone disease diagnosed?

The diagnosis of these bone conditions may include a bone density scan — a safe, painless x-ray. 

What are treatment options for metabolic bone disease?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Early detection and treatment of risk factors is essential to maintain the skeletal health of an individual. Doctor’s typically aim to treat patients at the earliest possible stage to prevent additional disease manifestations. A balanced diet with adequate amounts of vitamin D and calcium and an adequate amount of physical activity are needed for normal bone metabolism. Your doctor may prescribe osteoporosis medications to help slow the rate of bone loss, and in some cases, to replace the lost bone structure.

How to prevent MBD? 

1. Eat calcium-rich foods
2. Absorb enough vitamin D
3. Quit smoking
4. Limit alcohol consumption
5. Maintain a healthy weight
6. Eat a well-balanced diet
7. Stay active.

If you or your doctor suspect you may have MBD, reach out to us at Palm Diagnostics and we will be happy to provide you on-site X-ray services with results in less than  2-hours. For additional information, please visit https://palmdiagnostics.com/.