i fell twenty plus feet from a scaffold three years ago and broke my hip and shoulder.i have recently been told i have a strong possibilty of osteopenia .could this be caused by my fall.

Hello Anonymous,

Osteopenia refers bone mineral density that is lower than normal peak bone mineral density but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis.

Osteopenia develops because bones naturally become thinner as we grow older. Beginning in middle age, existing bone cells are reabsorbed by the body faster than new bone is made. As this occurs, the bones lose minerals, mass and structure, making them weaker and increasing their risk of breaking.

In general, factors that increase the risk of osteopenia include eating disorders or metabolism problems that do not allow your body to take in and use enough vitamins and minerals, chemotherapy or medications such as steroids, exposure to radiation, a family history of osteoporosis, being thin, being Caucasian or Asian, limited physical activity, smoking, regularly drinking cola beverages and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.

All that being said, I do not think your accident contributed to the development of this condition. What does your physician say?

Maryann