Adolescents and Bone Health
Rebecca J. Gordon, Catherine M. Gordon
Abstract
Adolescence is a critical time for the acquisition of peak bone mass. There are modifiable factors that may influence bone health in an adolescent. For those at risk for bone fragility, initial management includes optimization of calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and maintenance of a normal body weight. In certain scenarios, bisphosphonate treatment is indicated, as is reviewed. How hormonal contraceptives affect bone mineral density is unclear, but in patients with risk factors or known bone fragility, prescribers should consider their skeletal effects. Some conditions, including restrictive eating disorders and primary ovarian insufficiency, warrant long-term monitoring of bone health.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineBone healthPeak bone massOsteoporosisBone mineralVitamin D and neurologyBone densityAffect (linguistics)Bone massBisphosphonateBone Density Conservation AgentsDentistryInternal medicinePhilosophyLinguisticsVitamin D Research StudiesBone health and osteoporosis researchFolate and B Vitamins Research