Bone density measurement and MS: Specialist for Darmstadt explains
Risk of osteoporosis: When bone density measurement makes sense for MS patients from Darmstadt
DARMSTADT – Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that leads to chronic inflammation of the nervous system. There is currently no cure for the disease, but it can be well controlled with medication. However, it is also important to keep an eye on bone health: “MS patients have an increased risk of developing osteoporosis due to a variety of causes,” emphasizes Prof. Dr. med. Christian Wüster, specialist in endocrinology, who also treats patients from the Darmstadt region. Osteoporosis leads to a breakdown of the bone structure, which makes the bones porous and easier to break. A bone density measurement can determine whether there is a corresponding risk.
Specialist for Darmstadt: Carry out bone density measurement after individual risk assessment
Systematic studies on the connection between MS and bone loss do not yet exist. However, there are several risk factors associated with MS that can promote osteoporosis, as the experienced endocrinologist explains. These include a lack of exercise, frequent falls or treatment with cortisone preparations. “Particularly for older patients or those who are mainly in a wheelchair, a
bone density measurement can be useful,” emphasizes Prof. Dr. Wüster. However, a general osteoporosis screening for all multiple sclerosis patients is not necessary. “The disease often affects younger people who do not have an increased risk of bone fractures.”
In addition to bone density measurement, MS patients from Darmstadt should check their vitamin D status
Prof. Dr. Wüster also emphasizes the importance of vitamin D in connection with osteoporosis and MS. The body can produce this vitamin itself with the help of sunlight, but in our latitudes many people are deficient. Various studies suggest that a vitamin D deficiency can promote both multiple sclerosis and pathological bone loss. This makes it all the more important to assess the vitamin D status of MS patients and to compensate for a possible deficiency, as the endocrinologist emphasizes. In addition, an exercise program adapted to the disease is recommended: “Strong muscles also protect the bones. It also strengthens coordination, which increases gait stability and can prevent falls.
