Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item:
https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/58498
Title: | Estrogens and the intervertebral disc |
Authors: | Calleja-Agius, Jean Muscat Baron, Yves Brincat, Mark P. |
Keywords: | Estrogen Intervertebral disk Menopause Osteoporosis |
Issue Date: | 2009 |
Publisher: | Sage Publications Ltd. |
Citation: | Calleja-Agius, J., Muscat-Baron, Y., & Brincat, M. P. (2009). Estrogens and the intervertebral disc. Menopause International, 15(3), 127-130. |
Abstract: | Intervertebral discs are an integral part of the vertebral column. It has been shown that menopause has a negative effect on bone and on intervertebral discs. Estrogen has a beneficial effect of preserving the health of collagen-containing tissues, including the intervertebral disc. The intervertebral disc allows for mobility of the spine, and maintains a uniform stress distribution of the area of the vertebral endplates. Also, the disc influences spinal height. The disc tissue is adapted for this biomechanical function. The function of the spine is impaired if there is a loss of disc tissue. Narrowing of the disc space due to degeneration of intervertebral discs is associated with a significantly increased risk of vertebral fractures. Estrogen should be seen as the firstchoice therapy for bones and other collagen-rich tissues, such as intervertebral discs, because it maintains homeostasis of the bone-remodelling unit. Unlike bisphosphonates, estrogen is unique in its ability to regenerate bone collagen after its disintegration, apart from suppressing osteoclastic activity. Besides, there is insufficient data on deterioration in bone qualities and micro-cracks in patients on long-term bisphosphonates. |
URI: | https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/58498 |
Appears in Collections: | Scholarly Works - FacM&SAna |
Files in This Item:
File | Description | Size | Format | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Estrogens_and_the_intervertebral_disc_2009.pdf Restricted Access | 84.08 kB | Adobe PDF | View/Open Request a copy |
Items in OAR@UM are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.