Osteoporosis Management at Sortho Bone & Joint Clinics
At Sortho Bone & Joint Clinics, we offer specialized care for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. Our expert team focuses on providing personalized treatments and support to help patients manage osteoporosis and maintain bone health.
Our Osteoporosis Management Services Include:
1. Early Diagnosis and Risk Assessment
- Bone Density Testing (DEXA Scan): A key tool for diagnosing osteoporosis, a DEXA scan measures bone mineral density and helps assess the risk of fractures.
- Risk Factors Evaluation: We assess risk factors such as age, gender, family history, lifestyle, and medical conditions that contribute to osteoporosis development.
2. Medical Management
- Bisphosphonates: Medications like alendronate, risedronate, and zoledronic acid help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures by inhibiting bone resorption.
- Denosumab: A monoclonal antibody that targets RANKL, reducing bone resorption and helping increase bone density.
- Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs): Medications like raloxifene are used to mimic estrogen’s bone-protective effects, especially in postmenopausal women.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): For women experiencing bone loss due to menopause, HRT can help prevent further bone thinning by replenishing estrogen levels.
- Teriparatide & Abaloparatide: These medications stimulate bone formation in individuals with severe osteoporosis, reducing the risk of fractures.
3. Nutritional Support for Bone Health
- Calcium & Vitamin D: Calcium is essential for bone strength, while vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. We provide personalized advice on proper intake and supplementation to support bone health.
- Balanced Diet: We emphasize the importance of a diet rich in bone-healthy nutrients, including green leafy vegetables, dairy products, fortified foods, and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging bone-healthy habits, such as weight-bearing exercises, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake, are part of our approach to osteoporosis management.
4. Fall Prevention & Bone Protection
- Home Safety Modifications: We guide patients on preventing falls by making adjustments to their home environment, such as adding handrails, using non-slip mats, and ensuring proper lighting.
- Assistive Devices: For those at higher risk of falling, we recommend walking aids, such as canes or walkers, to ensure stability.
- Exercise Programs: Tailored physical therapy to strengthen bones and muscles, improve balance, and reduce the risk of fractures.
5. Fracture Management & Recovery
- Fracture Treatment: For patients who experience fractures, we provide expert care, including fracture reduction, immobilization, and surgical intervention when necessary.
- Post-Fracture Rehabilitation: We offer rehabilitation programs to restore mobility and function, helping patients recover fully after a fracture and prevent further bone loss.
Why Choose Sortho Bone & Joint Clinics for Osteoporosis Management?
- Comprehensive Care: We provide a holistic approach that includes diagnosis, medical treatment, nutritional support, exercise, and fall prevention strategies.
- Expert Specialists: Our team of orthopedic specialists and rheumatologists has extensive experience in osteoporosis management and fracture prevention.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: We utilize the latest diagnostic tools, including DEXA scans, to monitor bone health and ensure accurate treatment planning.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: We create customized treatment strategies based on your unique needs and risk factors, helping you manage osteoporosis effectively and reduce fracture risks.
What to Expect During Osteoporosis Management
1. Initial Consultation & Diagnosis
- Your journey begins with a detailed evaluation of your medical history, risk factors, and symptoms. We may recommend a DEXA scan to measure your bone density and determine your risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
2. Personalized Treatment Plan
- Based on your diagnosis, we will create a customized treatment plan that may include medications, dietary changes, exercise routines, and lifestyle modifications to prevent bone loss and improve bone strength.
3. Ongoing Monitoring
- Regular follow-up appointments allow us to track your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. We’ll monitor bone density through periodic scans and make adjustments to medications or lifestyle recommendations.
4. Fracture Prevention
- If you have osteoporosis or have already experienced a fracture, we will guide you through fracture prevention strategies, including rehabilitation, bone strengthening exercises, and home safety measures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the common signs of osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis often develops without symptoms, but signs may include frequent bone fractures, loss of height, and back pain due to fractures in the spine. In some cases, bone pain or tenderness can also be a warning sign.
At what age should I get tested for osteoporosis?
Bone density testing is typically recommended for women over 65 and men over 70, or for individuals at higher risk due to family history, medications, or certain health conditions. Those with risk factors may need testing earlier.
Can osteoporosis be reversed?
While osteoporosis cannot be completely reversed, its progression can be slowed or halted with the right treatments, including medications, lifestyle changes, and exercise. Fracture risk can also be significantly reduced with proper management.
How can I strengthen my bones naturally?
Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, running, and strength training are effective for strengthening bones. Additionally, consuming a diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein helps maintain bone health.
Is osteoporosis treatment lifelong?
Yes, osteoporosis management is typically a lifelong process. Regular follow-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle changes are essential to keeping bones strong and minimizing the risk of fractures.