Until Katie Kelly got a bone density test in her early 50's, she didn't realize she had the beginnings of osteoporosis or thinning bones.
"I can't believe it. It came as a shock," said Kelly.
Especially since she's doing the right things to help keep her bones strong.
OBGYN Dr. Sujatha Reddy said, "Things like regular weight bearing exercise, taking adequate calcium and vitamin D in your diet can definitely help you prevent bone loss."
But like many women, Katie has certain risk factors that increase the odds that her bones might fracture.
"Being petite, thin women is one. Being Caucasian is another risk factor. Some medical conditions put you at higher risk," said Dr. Reddy.
As does a family history, and menopause.
"We really think that when a woman goes into menopause, it's the decrease or drop in estrogen which allows the accelerated bone loss," said Dr. Reddy.
Katie will take medication to help build up her bone and come back for another bone density test in about 2 years. In the mean time she will up her amount of exercise to 3 or 4 days a week and continue taking her calcium and vitamin D.
"I can't believe it. It came as a shock," said Kelly.
Especially since she's doing the right things to help keep her bones strong.
OBGYN Dr. Sujatha Reddy said, "Things like regular weight bearing exercise, taking adequate calcium and vitamin D in your diet can definitely help you prevent bone loss."
But like many women, Katie has certain risk factors that increase the odds that her bones might fracture.
"Being petite, thin women is one. Being Caucasian is another risk factor. Some medical conditions put you at higher risk," said Dr. Reddy.
As does a family history, and menopause.
"We really think that when a woman goes into menopause, it's the decrease or drop in estrogen which allows the accelerated bone loss," said Dr. Reddy.
Katie will take medication to help build up her bone and come back for another bone density test in about 2 years. In the mean time she will up her amount of exercise to 3 or 4 days a week and continue taking her calcium and vitamin D.
