Mineral and Bone Disorder

Mineral and bone disorder occurs when there is an imbalance of calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood due to damaged kidneys. Too little calcium can cause your bones to become weak and brittle, while too much phosphorus can affect the body’s growth and energy. 

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders, this disorder is especially common in people with chronic kidney disease and affects most people with kidney failure receiving dialysis. 

How to be Tested for Mineral and Bone Disorder

There are several ways that physicians test for mineral and bone disorder. These may include:

• A blood test
• A bone biopsy
• An X-ray
• A physical exam

All of these examinations measure levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body. There are no early symptoms for mineral and bone disorder, so it is important to understand your lab results and if you feel you may be at risk, be sure to ask your doctor about the calcium and phosphorus levels in your blood. 

Treatment for Mineral and Bone Disorder

Treatment methods depend on test results and may change over time to suit your specific circumstances. Some common medicines that might be prescribed include:

• Active vitamin D
• Calcium supplements
• Calcimimetrics
• Phosphate binders

Changing diet 

Doctors may also suggest a change in diet to help control mineral balances. It is important to remember to limit your intake of high-phosphorus food and drink. A list of high-phosphorus foods can be seen in the infographic to the right.

 

Our staff is trained to handle a variety of orthopedic problems and provide sports medicine care. Our physicians take the time to individualize your treatment plan, and we care for you and your family with the same state-of-the-art techniques we use with Olympic athletes.

 

Sources:

“Mineral and Bone Disorder in Chronic Kidney Disease” National Institue of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/mineral-bone-disorder#what

“Mineral and Bone Disorder” National Kidney Foundation

https://www.kidney.org/sites/default/files/docs/11-10-6477_bbe_patbro_mineralbonef.pdf