Osteopenia

Osteopenia is a condition where bone mineral density is lower than normal but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. It represents an early stage of bone loss, typically without symptoms, and is usually diagnosed through bone density assessment such as a DEXA scan.

More recently, REMS (Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry) has become a valuable, radiation free alternative for assessing bone density and bone quality at the spine and hip, especially in people who cannot undergo DEXA or where DEXA results may be affected by factors such as spinal degeneration or vascular calcification.

While osteopenia does not mean a fracture is inevitable, it does indicate an increased risk over time.

Lifestyle measures such as weight bearing exercise, adequate calcium and vitamin D, limiting smoking and alcohol, and managing medical conditions or osteoporosis risk factors can help slow progression.

A physician with a special interest in osteoporosis can guide you through tailored risk assessment, advise on the most appropriate bone health investigations (including DEXA or REMS), and develop an individualised plan to prevent further bone loss and reduce your long term fracture risk.