AR pharmacy offers bone density scan

By Heather Killen

Spectator

NovaNewsNow.com

A new bone scanner is making it easy for Valley residents to get a heads-up on their thigh-bones.

Hutchins Pharmasave in Annapolis Royal has purchased an ultra-sound scanner that measures bone density. Weekly clinics are now being scheduled to give folks a chance to see how their bones are shaping up, and if needed, take steps to reverse the early stages of osteopenia, or low bone mass.

Krista and Danny McClair, owners of Hutchins Pharmasave, decided to buy the scanner after hosting several bone screening clinics last year. This is the only pharmacy in Atlantic Canada to offer this service, and it’s the only bone scanner in Kings and Annapolis counties.

One in four women, and one in eight men over the age of 50, have osteoporosis, a debilitating condition where bones become brittle, weak, and easily broken. Various risk factors come into play and can increase the chances for developing the condition that also increases with age. “This is a way to catch people in the early stages and then forward the information to the doctor,” said Krista McClair. “People can be proactive about maintaining their health and independence.”

Osteoporosis is a silent disease that often sneaks up during slip and fall season, with many people only discovering they have a problem through an injury such as a broken hip. An ounce of prevention could keep most people rolling along much longer.

The Pharmasave’s scanner measures the density of the radius bone of the forearm and compares its reading to age-appropriate averages, so people can see how their bones measure-up to others in their age group.

Hospitals in Halifax and Queens County have more comprehensive bone scanners able to diagnose problems, but the waiting list is long and can take up to a year for an appointment. This portable scanner gives people a chance to brace-up their body before a break. “A lot can happen in year,” said Danny McClair. “This scanner offers very consistent results. In rare cases, it can’t get a reading, but it’s very accurate for most people.”

The scanner is not intended to diagnose problems, only give people an idea of whether they are at risk, and then help them decide what steps they can take to bone-up for the long haul, according to McClair.

Each scan offers a consultation with Darlene Ellis, an Licensed Practical Nurse, who discusses the results, helps to assess risk factors, and offers advice on how people recover healthy bones through diet, exercise, and supplements.

Weight-bearing exercises, as well as calcium and Vitamin D supplements can help build bone mass, while some medications can help reverse the loss. All scans are kept on file, so patients can maintain the records over time and keep on track with an action plan. “It’s so easy to do simple things to get back on track,” she said. “Even people who are healthy can benefit because it’s good to know where you are and what you need to do to stay on track.”

For more information on the bone density screening clinics, call Hutchins Pharmasave at 532-2356, or visit www.hutchinspharmasave.com **********

Osteoporosis Bone Density Clinic s January 16, 23 and 30 at Hutchins Pharmasave, Annapolis Royal. Call for an appointment.