Nurse Myra Overby of Murray-Calloway Hospital’s Health Express prepares an ultrasound machine to test a patient for osteoporosis.
Nurse Myra Overby performed painless ultrasonic scans of patients’ heels for free to determine their risk for osteoporosis.
For those at risk, Health Promotions Coordinator Allison Lancaster recommends increased calcium uptake, exercise and avoiding caffeine, alcohol and tobacco. She also suggests a follow-up with a doctor if any problems are found.
“There’s no type of billing for the scans. It’s free of charge,” said Overby.
Though osteoporosis is widely regarded as a disorder experienced by women, Overby said that one out of six men also have a problem.
“There is no age group that is immune to the problem, but older women are at a greater risk. You see some women with a small frame and frail appearance and know they probably have it. Menopause causes a hormonal change that causes a loss of bone mass,” said Overby.
Lancaster added that post-menopausal women need more calcium in their diets as well as dietary supplements to maintain strong bones.
For the rest of this story, read this week's Cadiz Record.
