What you should know about osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a widespread disease characterized by a reduction in bone density and a deterioration in bone structure, which leads to an increased risk of fractures. In our practice, we rely on modern diagnostics with DEXA and REMS technology.

Osteoporosis is one of the ten most common diseases worldwide and affects around six million people in Germany alone.

Women are particularly affected: Around 80 % of osteoporosis patients are female, with the risk increasing significantly after the menopause.

With modern diagnostics, osteoporosis can be detected and treated promptly.

Traditional diagnostics: DEXA measurement

Dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is considered the gold standard for determining bone density. It measures bone density at various skeletal sites and provides important information for diagnosis and treatment decisions.

However, this procedure is associated with radiation exposure, albeit low, and requires special spatial and technical conditions.

Innovative diagnostics: bone density measurement using REMS technology

In addition to DEXA measurement, our practice also offers bone density measurement using the innovative REMS technology (Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry). This radiation-free ultrasound procedure makes it possible to assess bone density and quality in the lumbar spine and femoral neck.

Studies have shown that REMS is highly accurate in the diagnosis of osteoporosis and is comparable to the DEXA measurement:

• A study[1] by Amorim et al (2021) of 343 Brazilian women aged 30 to 80 years found that REMS was highly accurate in diagnosing osteoporosis and comparable to DEXA results.
• Another study[2] by Di Paola et al. (2019) with 2,000 patients confirmed the high correlation of T-score values between REMS and DEXA (Pearson correlation coefficient >0.93).

These results underline the reliability and accuracy of REMS technology as a radiation-free alternative to DEXA measurement in the diagnosis of osteoporosis.

Advantages of REMS technology

REMS technology enables precise diagnosis of osteoporosis and has numerous advantages over conventional methods such as DEXA measurement. Here is an overview of the most important advantages:

• Radiation-free: As REMS works without ionizing radiation, it is particularly suitable for patient groups where radiation exposure should be avoided, such as pregnant women.
• Quick implementation: The measurement only takes a few minutes and can be carried out directly in our practice.
• High accuracy: REMS delivers precise results that are comparable to those of DEXA measurement.
• Assessment of bone quality: In addition to bone density, SEMS can also provide information on the microarchitecture of the bone, which is important for assessing the risk of fracture.

Our experience in osteoporosis diagnostics and treatment

We have been diagnosing and treating osteoporosis in our practice for many years. By integrating REMS technology into our range of diagnostics, we can offer our patients a comprehensive and radiation-free examination of their bone health.

This enables early detection of osteoporosis and the introduction of individual treatment approaches to reduce the risk of fractures and improve quality of life.

In addition to precise diagnostics, we attach great importance to holistic and individualized therapy. Depending on the results of the bone density measurement and other risk factors, we develop customized treatment plans that include both drug and non-drug measures.

Our therapeutic approaches include

• Drug treatment: Targeted use of osteoporosis drugs such as bisphosphonates, denosumab or selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), as well as osteoanabolic agents to slow down bone loss and improve bone density.
• Nutritional advice: A bone-healthy diet with sufficient calcium and vitamin D is essential for bone health. We will advise you individually on your diet and any necessary supplements.
• Targeted exercise therapy: Regular physical activity, especially strength and balance training, strengthens the muscles and reduces the risk of falling. We will give you recommendations for effective exercises and exercise programs.
• Fall prevention: As falls are one of the main causes of osteoporotic fractures, we support you with practical tips on fall prevention and safe living space design.

Through this comprehensive care, we not only want to provide our patients with a precise diagnosis, but also contribute to the long-term maintenance and improvement of bone health.

Conclusion: Focus on your bone health

Osteoporosis is a serious but easily treatable disease – provided it is detected early. With our many years of experience in osteoporosis diagnostics and the combination of proven DEXA measurement and innovative REMS technology, we offer you a precise and radiation-free examination of your bone density.

Take advantage of modern and safe diagnostics to minimize your fracture risk and maintain your bone health in the long term. Have your bone density professionally measured and discuss individual treatment options with us.

Contact us today for a personal consultation or an appointment at our practice!

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[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34786596/

[2] https://www.boneforte.com/rems-and-dxa-side-by-side-comparison