Bone Health

At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, we are dedicated to not only addressing orthopedic and sports-related conditions but also providing essential bone health services. Understanding the importance of bone health is crucial in preventing conditions like osteoporosis.

This article will help you to learn more about what bone health and osteoporosis entail. We will also discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis. Finally, we will look at ways to lower the risk of osteoporosis.

Book your appointment with our bone health specialists today at Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine. We can be found in Granville and Coshocton, OH. Our specialists look forward to giving you the help you are looking for.

What are Bone Health and Osteoporosis?

Bone health is a medical specialty that focuses on the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis and other bone health injuries and conditions. Our bones are responsible for providing structural support, protecting our vital organs, and allowing us to move. Maintaining healthy bones is essential for our daily activities, ensuring we stay active and free from fractures or breaks.Osteoporosis is a disease that results in the weakening of bones, making them fragile and more susceptible to fractures. It occurs when there is a decrease in bone mass and density, leading to an increased risk of fractures, particularly in the hip, spine, and wrist. One in three women will be affected by osteoporosis in their lifetime, and those with osteoporosis are 5 times more likely to suffer a spine or hip fracture.

Play Video about Bone Health with Dr. Westerheide from OSSM.

What Causes Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is generally caused by an imbalance in the bone remodeling process, which is responsible for maintaining the health of our skeletal system.

In young and healthy adults, there is a balance between the removal and replacement of bone tissue, known as balanced bone remodeling. However, as you age, you can lose more bone mass than you gain. This imbalance results in the gradual deterioration of bone structure and strength, making bones more susceptible to various bone diseases, including osteoporosis.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is often referred to as the “silent disease” because it typically progresses without symptoms until a fracture occurs. Common signs and symptoms of osteoporosis include:

Loss of height over time
Stooped posture
Back pain, which may be caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra
Unexpected bone fractures, especially in the hip, wrist, or spine

How Common is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a widespread condition that affects millions of individuals, particularly as they age. It’s more common in women, but men are also at risk. As we age, the risk of osteoporosis increases. Therefore, it is essential to focus on bone health from an early age to prevent or manage this condition effectively.

Osteoporosis Risk Factors

Understanding the risk factors for osteoporosis is vital in taking proactive steps to prevent it. Some of the key risk factors include:

Age: The older you are, the higher the risk of osteoporosis.
Gender: Women are at greater risk, especially after menopause.
Family History: A family history of osteoporosis can increase your risk.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal imbalances, particularly low estrogen or testosterone, can contribute to bone loss.
Nutrition: Inadequate vitamin D and calcium intake can weaken bones.
Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle increase the risk.

How Osteoporosis is Diagnosed

To diagnose osteoporosis and assess your bone health, your doctor may recommend a bone density test, also known as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). This test measures your bone mineral density and helps in determining the extent of bone loss. Based on the results, your doctor can make informed recommendations for treatment and lifestyle modifications.

How is Osteoporosis Treated?

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, there are several treatment options available to help you manage the condition and reduce the risk of fractures. Some common treatment approaches include:

Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to strengthen your bones and reduce the risk of fractures.
Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating a balanced diet with adequate calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercises, and quitting smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can make a significant difference.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy may be recommended to improve your strength and balance, reducing the risk of falls and fractures.

Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine offers a comprehensive approach to bone health, including diagnosis and personalized treatment plans to manage osteoporosis effectively.

How to Lower Your Risk of Osteoporosis

Incorporating a balanced diet with adequate calcium absorption and enough vitamin D, along with weight-bearing exercises, can help you achieve and maintain strong bones throughout your life and lower your risk of osteoporosis. This is crucial in reaching and maintaining your peak bone mass, which is the maximum bone density you can achieve.

Achieving and maintaining peak bone mass is essential for keeping your bones healthy and reducing the risk of conditions like osteoporosis, which is characterized by low bone density and excessive bone breakdown.

Furthermore, paying attention to your bone health is not only important for preventing osteoporosis but also for maintaining overall musculoskeletal health and preventing a range of musculoskeletal and skin diseases that can affect your quality of life.

Get Your Bone Health Diagnosed Today

Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine is your partner in achieving strong, healthy bones and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. We provide comprehensive bone health services, including diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. If you have concerns about your bone health or are looking for guidance on osteoporosis prevention, don’t hesitate to contact us.

For more information on bone health or to schedule a bone density test, contact us today. Visit our practice locations in Granville and Coshocton, OH and take the first step towards maintaining your bone health. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re here to support you on your journey to healthier, stronger bones.

Medically reviewed by Brad L. Bernacki, M. D.