Thyroid hormones and bone metabolism are intimately connected. Most people still think that bone density and strength are determined by calcium levels and that calcium supplementation and calcium rich foods are the answer. Wrong. Bone metabolism has more to do with vitamin D levels, autoimmunity, and thyroid function. There are two things to understand: the impact of thyroid states on bone DENSITY and the impacts of thyroid HORMONES on bone QUALITY. New research reveals that denser bone does not equate to stronger bone. Bone strength or resistance to fracture is not easily measured by bone densitometry which is what the typical medical doctor uses to “assess” bone strength.  Bone density and bone strength are not same thing. In traditional medicine, doctors are taught that bone density is the measure of bone strength and the response to pharmaceutical osteoporosis treatment. In recent years this concept has changed to include a number of characteristics that make up bone quality. BONE QUALITY  is a composite of properties that make the bone resist fractures which includes bone structure, bone damage, collagen quality, mineral crystal size, and bone turnover. So denser bone is not always stronger bone, younger bone density is stronger than older bone density, and changes in density account for only part of the risk factors.

Lack of thyroid hormones will alter normal growth during childhood. Hyperthyroidism is associated with an increased risk of for fractures. Adult hypothyroid patients exhibit higher than normal bone density (not strength) so hypothyroidism is associated with increased risk fractures before and after diagnosis. Those with suppressed levels of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) will lose bone and have higher fracture rates. Those with nomal TSH levels will have no increase in fracture risk.

At Brown Chiropractic Neurology, we perform blood, saliva, stool, analysis to determine where the cause of an individuals problems are. Only by looking at a complete functional analysis can we determine the proper course of treatment. Simply increasing bone density by use of pharmaceuticals will not decrease risk of fracture and falls (#1 cause of death over 65).

If you have wondered if chiropractic natural nutritional approaches can help you, see a chiropractor or chiropractors. Better yet, see a chiropractic neurologist such as myself Dr. Scott Brown.

At Brown Chiropractic Neurology, and in functional medicine, we look at your cholesterol (lipid) panels thoroughly (not just total cholesterol) to determine the best diet and supplement regimen for you. Call us today at (303) 986-7600.

We proudly serve Denver, Lakewood, Arvada, Golden, Morrison, Evergreen, Wheat Ridge Colorado (CO).

Denver/ Lakewood Chiropractor