Osteoporosis & Bone Health
Osteoporosis (literally porous bones) is a condition in which bones become brittle and fragile due to reduced density caused by hormonal changes or vitamin deficiencies. Osteoporosis-related bone fractures can occur with increasing frequency as the bones continue to weaken and take longer to heal than normal fractures. Osteoporosis can lead to back and joint pain, bone fractures, and other medical issues, and is most likely to occur in postmenopausal women due to estrogen deficiency (80% of osteoporosis patients are women), but can also affect other individuals with hormonal/endocrine disorders and men over the age of 60.
Most experts agree that osteoporosis can be treated or prevented with weight-bearing exercises, mineral supplements, high-calcium diets, and/or hormonal supplements that help regulate estrogen and medications that aid in the development and preservation of strong bones.
How can endocrinologists help treat osteoporosis?
Our licensed endocrinologists can help identify the root causes of osteoporosis in patients and work closely with patients to develop a customized treatment plan that may involve some or all of the standard treatments mentioned above. Therapies approved for treatment includes either estrogen alone, or a combination which can help prevent unwanted side effects from estrogen taken alone. Some treatments are once a week, others once a month, every 3 months, 6 months or 12 months.
The best way to prevent osteoporosis is to maintain a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking and heavy drinking, while participating in regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight. However, osteoporosis can still affect those with healthy lifestyles. If you suffer from osteoporosis or are concerned that it may be a possibility, you can schedule a consultation with one of our board licensed endocrinologists who will review your case and determine the appropriate next steps which may include a DEXA Scan to assess your bone density, as well as appropriate treatment to ensure your quality of life.