Osteoporosis & fracture care

Both women and men can get osteoporosis. But the condition affects far more females, and the public often sees it as a women’s health issue. Women are at risk for osteoporosis, in large part, due to changes that occur with menopause. A drop in bone-protecting estrogen levels. The decreases in this hormone lead to rapid bone loss. 

During a DEXA scan, you lie on a table. A special type of X-ray machine takes pictures of your bones. The exam uses low levels of radiation, is painless and takes about 30 minutes to complete. Your results help us determine your bone density.

Osteoporosis can cause pain. But that’s usually after a bone breaks. A fracture or collapse of a bone in the spine is a common source of osteoporosis-related discomfort. Collapsed spinal bones may also cause you to appear stooped over or result in a loss of height. 

We recommend a DEXA scan if you are a woman over 65 or a man over 70. If you are 50 or older and have risk factors, screening may be helpful. Based on your results, we will let you know when you should undergo follow-up testing. 

Osteoporosis is very treatable. Medications and lifestyle changes, such as weight-bearing exercise and increasing your intake of calcium and vitamin D, may help strengthen your bones. Things like balance therapy and fall prevention strategies can also reduce your risk of fractures.