Managing Osteoporosis: Treatment Options and Dental Considerations
Post-osteoporosis management? Hello Dr. Chen, Since the beginning of this year, I have noticeably lost height and my weight has decreased by 6.7 kg. I underwent a bone density test (hip) and my T-score was -3.3. The rehabilitation physician advised me to supplement with calcium...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin: Based on your condition, it is recommended that you adopt the following multi-faceted treatment approach: dietary supplementation of calcium and vitamin D, along with sun exposure (20 minutes of sunlight daily between 10 AM and 3 PM), exercise (walking, hiking, or ...[Read More] Managing Osteoporosis: Treatment Options and Dental Considerations
Will My Toe Deform Without a Cast After a Fracture?
Will the toes deform if not placed in a cast? Hello, I live in the United States. Ten days ago, I kicked the foot of my bed and my right middle toe bent to the right at about a 45-degree angle. I had never seen my toe bend that way before, so I realigned it immediately. Then I we...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. There is no need for a cast. 2. The foot can start moving and bearing weight in two to four weeks. 3. Calcium and vitamin D3 supplements can be taken.[Read More] Will My Toe Deform Without a Cast After a Fracture?
Do You Need Osteoporosis Injections for a -2.7 Bone Density?
The health check revealed osteoporosis; do I need to receive the so-called osteoporosis injection? Hello Doctor: My health check report indicates that my bone density is -2.7. Do I need to receive osteoporosis injections or take medication? Or how should I take care of my bone he...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello: The current definition of osteoporosis, with a T-score of less than or equal to -2.5, applies specifically to postmenopausal women and elderly men. Therefore, strictly speaking, you do not have osteoporosis, and it is not recommended to start injections or medications at t...[Read More] Do You Need Osteoporosis Injections for a -2.7 Bone Density?
Recovery Insights for Severe Clavicle and Rib Fractures After an Accident
Clavicle fracture with multiple rib fractures and posterior scoliosis? Hello Dr. Tsai: My family member was involved in a car accident and fell to the ground, resulting in a comminuted fracture of the left clavicle and three broken ribs on the left side (the hospital did not pe...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
1. It is quite common for multiple fractures to require three months of rest. 2. The fastest recovery time is six months, while the longest may not result in full recovery. 3. It is difficult to determine; please consult the treating physician during your follow-up appointmen...[Read More] Recovery Insights for Severe Clavicle and Rib Fractures After an Accident
Understanding Vitamin D Needs and Bone Health Risks for Indoor Lifestyle
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) T-score 1.8, Z-score -1.4; bilateral femoral T-score -2.2, Z-score -2.0, all indicating the worst results? I stay indoors from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM to avoid sun exposure, although the indoor lighting is decent and I still get some UV exposur...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
1. 800 IU. 2. It's unlikely, but it's recommended to rule out the possibility of secondary osteoporosis (suggested to visit an osteoporosis clinic).[Read More] Understanding Vitamin D Needs and Bone Health Risks for Indoor Lifestyle
Recovery Challenges After Car Accident: Managing Multiple Bone Injuries
Car accident resulting in a comminuted clavicle fracture, multiple rib fractures, and posterior spinal scoliosis? Dear Dr. Wang, Hello. My family member was involved in a car accident and fell to the ground, resulting in a comminuted fracture of the left clavicle and three fract...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, it is possible for elderly patients with osteoporosis to require assistance for three to six months after multiple fractures. The scoliosis should not be attributed to this injury; rather, if the patient is elderly and has been engaged in weight-bearing work, degeneration ...[Read More] Recovery Challenges After Car Accident: Managing Multiple Bone Injuries
Understanding Osteoporosis Treatment Options for Young Diabetic Patients
The lowest T-score for bone mineral density in the spine is -1.8, while the lowest T-score for both femurs is -2.2? Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) bone density examination shows a worst T-score of -1.8 for the spine and -2.2 for both femurs. This examination was conducte...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
1. Based on your age, DXA should be assessed using Z-scores. Additionally, the National Health Insurance provides coverage for osteoporosis medications under specific conditions (such as fractures in certain sites combined with osteoporosis). 2. I am not aware of your Z-score. 3....[Read More] Understanding Osteoporosis Treatment Options for Young Diabetic Patients
Sun Exposure and Calcium: Essential Tips for Bone Health
Sun exposure and bone health? I went to the hospital for a check-up and found out that my bone density has reached the level of osteoporosis. I haven't had children and I'm unmarried. The doctor advised me to take calcium supplements and get sunlight exposure. What time...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Hello: To increase the conversion of vitamin D3 in the body through appropriate sun exposure, it is generally recommended to spend time in the sun before 10 AM or after 2 PM, when the sunlight is not at its strongest. Avoid using sunscreen during this time and sunbathe for 10 to ...[Read More] Sun Exposure and Calcium: Essential Tips for Bone Health
Understanding Osteoporosis Treatment: DXA Results and Vitamin D Needs
DXA spine shows the lowest T-score of -1.8, and both femurs have a T-score of -2.2 (report from December 2012)? DXA results show a lumbar spine T-score of -1.8 and a bilateral femur T-score of -2.2 (report from December 2012). Dr. Chen Yong-hsueh's recommendations are as fol...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
If you have any questions, please visit the outpatient clinic for a blood test. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Osteoporosis Treatment: DXA Results and Vitamin D Needs
Am I at Risk of Fractures Due to Osteoporosis and Medication?
Am I at risk of fracturing my bones at any time? Currently, I am taking the following medications: LEEYO (Escitalopram) 10mg, Doxepin 25mg twice daily, Lyrica 75mg twice daily, Metformin 500mg, Tamsulosin 0.2mg, Ativan 0.5mg four times daily, and Zolpidem twice at bedtime (all of...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, osteoporosis indicates that the risk of fractures due to trauma is higher than that of normal individuals, but it does not mean that spontaneous fractures will occur. Supplementing with calcium and vitamin D3, along with regular exercise, can help maintain bone density. Re...[Read More] Am I at Risk of Fractures Due to Osteoporosis and Medication?
Understanding Osteoporosis Treatment and Calcium Needs After DEXA Scan Results
DEXA bone mineral density: spinal T-score -1.8, bilateral femoral T-score -2.2? Your questions: Currently taking medications include LEEYO (Escitalopram) 10mg, Doxepin 25mg *2, LYRICA 75mg *2, Metformin 500mg, Tamsulosin 0.2mg, Ativan 0.5mg *4, Zolpidem *2 at bedtime (all taken l...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
It is still advisable to get moderate sun exposure. If there are other circumstances that prevent the normal synthesis of vitamin D, please consider getting a blood test to check vitamin D levels and adjust accordingly. Generally, a daily intake of about 600 IU is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Osteoporosis Treatment and Calcium Needs After DEXA Scan Results
Understanding DEXA Results: Osteoporosis Treatment Options and Supplements
The DEXA scan shows a worst T-score of -1.8 for the spine and a worst T-score of -2.2 for both femurs? Currently, I am taking the following medications: LEEYO (Escitalopram) 10mg, Doxepin 25mg twice daily, Lyrica 75mg twice daily, Metformin 500mg, Tamsulosin 0.2mg, Ativan 0.5mg f...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
1. If I have never had a fracture, does that mean that health insurance will not cover osteoporosis medication? Yes, health insurance cannot provide unlimited coverage. Currently, coverage is available only for individuals who are at least 60 years old, have a bone mineral densit...[Read More] Understanding DEXA Results: Osteoporosis Treatment Options and Supplements
Understanding DEXA Results: Osteoporosis Treatment and Vitamin D Needs
DEXA (DXA) bone mineral density results show a T-score of -1.8 for the spine and a T-score of -2.2 for both femurs? Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) bone mineral density examination results show a T-score of -1.8 for the spine and -2.2 for both femurs. This examination was...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Your bone mineral density has not yet reached below -2.5, so you do not have osteoporosis. Those medications must be purchased out of pocket. Vitamin D3 should be taken at a dosage of 1000-2000 IU per day.[Read More] Understanding DEXA Results: Osteoporosis Treatment and Vitamin D Needs
Effective Treatment Options for Compression Fractures and Osteoporosis in Seniors
What are the treatment options for lumbar vertebral fractures? Doctor: My father is 92 years old. A CT scan on October 8, 2023, revealed compression fractures of the thoracolumbar spine due to osteoporotic changes at T11 and T12, as well as severe lumbar scoliosis. What are the t...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
Currently, for compression fractures, minimally invasive vertebroplasty can be selected. As for osteoporosis, it is necessary to first check bone mineral density before proceeding with further treatment.[Read More] Effective Treatment Options for Compression Fractures and Osteoporosis in Seniors
Understanding Complications in Elderly Fracture Surgery: A Case Study
Surgery for Elderly Fractures Hello Doctor: My mother is 70 years old and had a crush injury to her left arm due to a car accident last week. After the physician's recommendation, she underwent surgery to fixate the fracture with a titanium plate. However, two days post-oper...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Hello, due to osteoporosis and comminuted fractures, all the reasons you mentioned above are possible.[Read More] Understanding Complications in Elderly Fracture Surgery: A Case Study
Total Hip Replacement for Osteoporotic Patients: A Stepwise Approach?
Hip joint replacement in patients with osteoporosis? Father (70 y/o, severe osteoporosis): After a femoral neck fracture, he has undergone two surgeries: the first was an open reduction, but the fixation implant protruded, causing a defect in the lateral acetabulum; the second wa...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Hello, generally speaking, for a femoral neck fracture without displacement, the National Health Insurance regulations in Taiwan only cover open reduction and internal fixation with bone screws. As long as the position of the screws is appropriate, the patient uses a walker, and ...[Read More] Total Hip Replacement for Osteoporotic Patients: A Stepwise Approach?
Managing Coccyx Fractures and Osteoporosis in Seniors: Key Insights
Coccygeal fracture, osteoporosis? My grandmother is 78 years old. During the 228 holiday last year, she fell while walking to collect something and landed on her buttocks. After going to the hospital, the doctor diagnosed her with a coccyx fracture and ordered a bone density test...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Coccydynia, or pain in the coccyx, is typically caused by trauma and is not necessarily related to osteoporosis. Fractures resulting from osteoporosis usually occur in the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, often leading to compression fractures from minor falls. Caltrate seems to he...[Read More] Managing Coccyx Fractures and Osteoporosis in Seniors: Key Insights
Managing Osteoporosis and Sciatica: Effective Treatment Options for Pain Relief
What is the treatment for osteoporosis accompanied by sciatica? Hello Dr. Yeh, My father is suffering from osteoporosis along with symptoms of sciatica. Recently, he received a government-subsidized injection of bisphosphonates, and the doctor advised against rehabilitation, pr...
Dr. Ye Qingnian Reply:
In older adults with sciatica, it is particularly important to monitor whether they wake up at night due to pain. If they do wake up in pain, it is crucial to be cautious about the possibility of tumor metastasis. Sciatica generally improves on its own within six months; however,...[Read More] Managing Osteoporosis and Sciatica: Effective Treatment Options for Pain Relief
Understanding Fibula Fractures: Surgery vs. Alternative Treatments
Issues Related to Fibula Fractures Hello, I recently suffered a fibular fracture in the lower leg due to an accident and underwent surgery using a Zimmer distal fibular locking plate for fixation. Here are the questions regarding my injury and treatment: 1. If I had chosen not...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. Your fracture is accompanied by displacement, and without surgery, it cannot be completely realigned. If the alignment is correct after surgery, there is a possibility of complete recovery in the future. 2. Leaving the plate in place does not have much impact. If you feel di...[Read More] Understanding Fibula Fractures: Surgery vs. Alternative Treatments
Effective Treatments for Sciatica Pain in Osteoporosis Patients
How is sciatica treated? Hello, doctor. My father has osteoporosis and also suffers from sciatica, which has made walking increasingly difficult. It seems to be caused by the sciatica. He previously received insurance-covered injections of bone-strengthening medication. What are ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Sciatica is usually caused by bone spurs or herniated intervertebral discs pressing on the nerves. First, it is important to clarify which condition is present, which can be determined through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If surgery is an option, it can be performed to resol...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Sciatica Pain in Osteoporosis Patients