Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis Glossary

Bone densitometer – A bone densitometer, on which the patient lies during a bone density test, resembles a large padded examination table. The densitometer measures bone density by using a small amount of radiation. The test is painless and takes less than 10 minutes.

Bone density test – This measures bone density at various sites in the body. It can detect osteoporosis before a fracture occurs, predict your chances of fractures and determine the rate of bone loss. This test also can monitor the effects of treatment if the test is conducted at intervals of a year or more.

Calcium – This essential mineral in the diet is needed to combine with the mineral phosphorous to form the dense, hard material found in teeth and bones. It’s also needed in sufficient quantity in the blood to maintain a normal heartbeat. Calcium also maintains the normal function of the nerves and muscles.  If you don’t get enough calcium from your diet, ask your health-care provider about taking a calcium supplement.

DEXA or DXA – This is an acronym for Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. It is a type of bone-mineral density test and is considered the “gold standard” in bone-density measurement accuracy and precision.

Fracture – This is a break. In osteoporosis, the most common sites for a fracture are the vertebrae, hip or wrist.

Menopause – Menopause is defined as the point when menstrual periods have stopped for a full year. It is the end of menstruation in a woman, and usually occurs between ages 45 and 55.

National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) – This is the leading nonprofit voluntary health organization dedicated to promoting lifelong bone health. The NOF focuses on reducing the prevalence of osteoporosis and associated fractures, and works to find a cure through research, education and advocacy programs.

Osteopenia – This stage of bone loss occurs before true osteoporosis has developed. It is characterized by low bone density, or thinning of the bones, but at a lower rate than osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis –This disease is characterized by thinning and weakening of the bone through the loss of bone tissue, mass or density. This causes the bones to become more fragile and more likely to break.

Radiation – This is the use of light, short radio waves, ultraviolet or X-rays or any other types of rays for treatment, diagnosis or other purposes. The amount of radiation in a DEXA or DXA exam is 1/10^th the amount received in a chest X-ray.

Strength-training exercise – This includes lifting free weights, using weight machines and pulling resistance rubber bands. It also is considered beneficial in preventing osteoporosis. Your health-care professional can help you identify which type of exercise is best for you.

Vitamin D – This essential vitamin allows the bones to absorb calcium. Vitamin D allows calcium to leave the intestine and enter the bloodstream.

Weight-bearing exercise – This includes walking, hiking, dancing and low-impact aerobics. Weight-bearing exercises that don’t involve jumping are considered the best start for an effective exercise program to prevent osteoporosis.