Spinal Osteopenia

Spinal osteopenia is a fairly common condition that needs to be addressed. If something is not done about it, it could turn into Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis of the spine often leads to small vertebral fractures and the development of a hump on the back, sometimes called dowagers hump.

Frequently asked questions:

A dexa scan (‘Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry', a test that measures the number of grams of bone per centimeter is the usual tool for diagnosis. A dexa scan is painless and takes only a short time.Most dexa scans cover both the hip and the spine.

How do they tell if I have the condition?

The results of your dexa scan test are compared to those of persons in their peak bone mass years. The results of the comparison are reported in what is called a T score.

T scores between +1 and - 1 show normal bone mineral density. Scores between -1 and -2.5 show Osteopenia and those below -2.5 indicate Osteoporosis.

So spinal osteopenia is defined as a spinal T score on a dexa scan of -1 to -2.5.

What should I do about spinal osteopenia?

First, I assume that you have had some discussion of your situationwith your health care provider and he or she may have made somerecommendations. Follow them.

Second, since successful treatment of Osteopenia really requires your cooperation, I suggest that you educate yourself.

1. Read the section about Osteopenia treatments.[link given below]
2. Make a list of comments or questions to raise with yourhealth care provider.
3. Make a tentative plan of action.
4. Now make an appointment with your health care provider andgo over your questions and your plan.
5. Then follow the plan!
6. Continue to educate yourself by reading on the subject and subscrbingto our monthly newsletter, Osteopenia Updates. [See: links below}

Here are the links Follow each link. It may take a bit of time but it will be well spent.

• Osteopenia treatments .
• Books about Osteopenia and Osteoporosis. Most include chaptersabout spinal osteopenia and osteoporosis
• Keep up with the news. Subscribe to our free monthy newsletter, Osteopenia updates

And good luck! You can stop and reverse osteopenia. But you need to follow your Osteopenia treatment plan.

To learn more about dexa scans go to Dexa Scans or go to read about the back humps that can happen to those with spinal osteopenia go to Dowagers Humps .