Assignment task:
A 65-year-old Caucasian female has a follow-up appointment with a family orthopedist after visiting the emergency department for a wrist fracture. The orthopedist then turns her case over to you to schedule a bone mineral density (BMD) testing. Results of the BMD test show a T-score of -3.0, indicating osteoporosis. Her past medical history includes mild hypertension which is currently managed with propranolol. She also takes a daily multivitamin. She drinks and smokes occasionally and she has no children or spouse.
Q1. What is the difference between degenerative bone disease and osteoporosis? Explain the pathology of each.
Q2. What treatment options should be discussed with the patient?
Q3. What lifestyle changes should be recommended to the patient?