Osteopenia

Osteopenia is a form of bone thinning where the bone mineral density is below normal but not low enough to be categorized as osteoporosis. A T score between -1 and -2.5 is defined as osteopenia (learn more about bone density and bone density measurement).

Signs and Symptoms of Osteopenia

Osteopenia does not have associated symptoms and may often go undiagnosed. It does not present a health problem for the patient itself but can progress to become osteoporosis. Diagnosis of osteopenia can help alert the patient and their personal physican to future potential problems and the doctor can then help the patient take steps to prevent progression by changes in life style including diet, exercise and supplements if they are considered at risk for fractures.