Osteoporosis

BONE HEALTH-OSTEOPENIA-OSTEOPOROSIS

This is an important subject often brought to the gynecologist office at well woman exam.  I will help you understand the current concepts in this area and we will use some lab tests and bone density tests to aid us in our evaluation of your care.  The recommendations change yearly –as do the pharmaceutical interventions.  The yearly goal is to keep your healthy, minimize risk from meds, and suffer from premature broken bones!

I often prefer your Family Doctor to prescribe and advise your bone loss medication—depending on his/her expertise and on your other health problems.  If you have fairly severe bone loss or concerns or family history—we may use other specialists—such a Rheumatologist to guide us!

Learn about osteoporosis and take action against this silent disease.You may not know you have it until your thinned, weakened bones fracture in a bump or fall.

What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis weakens bones and increases the risk of unexpected fractures. Serious consequences can occur with some fractures.

Want to see what a bone with osteoporosis looks like, compared to a healthy bone? This link will show you photos of normal and osteoporotic bone.

Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease. It can be prevented with a healthy diet and staying physically active. Learn about factors that can make bones stronger or weaker. 

What Causes Compression Fractures?

Most spinal compression fractures are never diagnosed because many patients and families think the back pain is merely a sign of aging and arthritis. These weakened bones cause the spine to collapse.

Are You at Risk? It’s never too early or too late to address bone health.

Osteoporosis Prevention

Osteoporosis can be prevented. People of all ages can get involved in protecting their bones.  Exercise and a healthy diet can cut osteoporosis risk. Here are some tips for keeping your bones strong.Dairy products are rich in calcium, which is essential for building and maintaining strong bones. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. And we need more vitamin D as we get older. Are you getting enough? If your diet doesn’t contain sufficient amounts of this bone saver, supplements may help. Read about vitamin D deficiency.