Firm hand on fragile bones

By Tania Martin
HILLS people are being urged to get their bone density tested.
Bone density testing is recommended for women over 40 years old and men over 50 years old and is also available for anyone over the age of 20.
Testing will at available at Monbulk Pharmacy on Thursday, 28 June and at Terry White Chemists Knox City on Thursday, 5 July.
So now is the time to stop thinking about being tested and get it done.
Doctor Max Holsman, a medical adviser for the Australian Bone Density Testing Centre, says testing is a great way for people to assess their risk of bone fractures.
“Don’t wait till you break a bone to take preventative action or commence treatment,” he said.
“A simple, fast inexpensive bone density test can assess your bone quality and risk of fracture before a fracture occurs.”
For 12 years the Australian Bone Density Testing Centre has provided regular testing through pharmacies throughout Victoria, NSW and Canberra.
Dr Holsman said testing was very useful in assessing the risk of fractures.
“The ultrasound bone testing provides reliable estimates of fracture risk, particularly for fracture risk at the hip,” he said.
The tests are 100 per cent safe, cost just $40 and do not require a referral.
The results are available immediately and each consultation provides information on calcium, exercise and other requirements for lifelong maintenance of healthy bones and minimisation of bone loss.
Everyone who undertakes a bone density test will also receive a booklet on issues such as understanding bones, women, men and osteoporosis, and the importance of calcium.
Dr Holsman said people couldn’t feel their bones getting thinner, which was why osteoporosis was called the silent disease.
And, unfortunately, many people did not take bone health and osteoporosis prevention seriously until it was too late to prevent fractures.
“Osteoporosis means that bones become thin and fragile and break easily,” he said.
“In Australia it affects one in three women and increasing numbers of men. Bones reach their peak strength around the age of 25.
“From approximately 35, both men and women can slowly start to lose bone strength at about 1 per cent per year.
“The outstanding fact is that it is largely preventable and treatable.”
To assess your risk book your test at Monbulk Pharmacy, 98 Main Street, or phone 9756 6273 and Terry White Chemists, Level 1, Knox City Shopping Centre, or by phoning 9801 5560.