Women's Services

About Osteoporosis

What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is the thinning or weakening of your bones, which begins in your mid-to-late 30’s and, for women, accelerates after menopause. Left unchecked, your bones become porous and fragile and are more likely to break or fracture. However, osteoporosis is not inevitable and is very preventable.

How to prevent osteoporosis
To be active and live independently into your 60s, 70s and beyond, you need to take action as early as possible.
Here's how:

• Diet – take the daily requirement of calcium (1,000 -1,200 mg) and vitamin D (400 mg).
• Exercise – do weight-bearing exercises, which stimulate your bones (walking, dancing, stair climbing).
• Lifestyle – don't smoke; keep alcohol consumption to a minimum.
• Testing – find out where you stand with a bone density scan and monitor your bones regularly.

Who is at risk?
Women are at higher risk than men. Caucasians and Asians and small, thin women are at greatest risk.
Other risk factors include:

• Family history of osteoporosis
• Early or surgically induced (both ovaries removed) menopause before the age of 45
• Post menopause
• Smoking, or drinking an excessive amount of alcohol 

Bone Density Scan
The DEXA scan is a quick and painless procedure. You simply lie still while the scanner passes over your body. In minutes, you'll know your results. To make an appointment, call: 1-808-949-WELL (9355) on Oahu or 1-808-245-1030 on Kauai.

Preventive Treatment Plan
Once a bone scan is done, your physician can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Osteo-cise Classes
Osteo-cise helps women diagnosed or at risk for osteoporosis to safely build muscle strength and flexibility. Work to improve your posture, gait, balance, core strength, muscle and bone health, and reduce back pain. Six-week series. Sign up online.