Osteoporosis
Rheumatology Medical Center
Dr. Ritika Narula, DO
Rheumatologist located in Weston, FL
Osteoporosis is a common bone condition that increases your risk of fractures. With advances in treatment options, Ritika Narula, DO, and the team at Rheumatology Medical Center in Weston, Florida, can help slow down and even stop the progression of osteoporosis and your risk of developing more serious health complications. For expert care for your osteoporosis from a patient-focused team, call the office or book an appointment online today.
Osteoporosis Q & A
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes your bones to weaken, making them more vulnerable to fractures.
Bone is living tissue under constant reconstruction, with new bone cells regularly replacing old bone cells. By age 30, however, the rate of bone cell regeneration slows down. This change in bone cell regeneration causes your bones to thin and weaken, increasing your risk of osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis develops without signs or symptoms. You may not realize what’s happening to your bones until you experience a fracture after a minor injury.
Who gets osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis affects people of all ages. However, the bone disease is more common in women because they naturally have thinner bones than men. Additionally, the rate of bone loss increases in women after menopause.
Men are also at risk of osteoporosis, especially after they reach age 70.
Though age plays a significant role in developing osteoporosis, lifestyle factors, medications, and other chronic health conditions may also increase your risk.
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Osteoporosis is a serious health concern, and most primary care physicians recommend bone mineral density tests for people at risk.
During the screening test, your provider performs a special X-ray, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), that measures the mineral density of the bones in your spine, hips, or femur.
The DEXA scan is quick and painless. Based on your bone mineral density, your provider determines if you have osteoporosis or are at risk for it.
How is osteoporosis treated?
Dr. Narula and the Rheumatology Medical Center team take a patient-centered approach to care and develop treatment plans based on your DEXA scan results and your bone fracture risk. Treatment may include:
- Calcium and vitamin D supplementation
- Physical activity
- Bisphosphonates to slow down bone loss
- Calcitonin to prevent vertebral fractures
- Hormone replacement therapy to decrease the risk of osteoporosis
- Teriparatide to stimulate bone formation
- Denosumab to slow down the rate of bone loss
Some of the treatment options for osteoporosis cause side effects or may not be appropriate for all people. Dr. Narula works closely with you to design a plan that best meets your needs.
For a personalized approach to improving your bone health, call Rheumatology Medical Center or book an appointment online today.