Osteoporosis Management

We see our share of broken bones as an orthopaedic and sports medicine practice. From the high school baseball player who collided with first base a little too hard to the avid DIY’er who took a tumble from an unsecured ladder and everything in between, we’ve seen it all. As we age, we also gradually lose bone mass, which occurs as small amounts of healthy bone are absorbed into your body as small amounts are replaced. When more bone is absorbed than is replaced, the density (bone mass) is reduced. Osteoporosis develops when the bone is no longer replaced as quickly as it is removed, and over time, it causes the bone to become progressively weaker, increasing the risk that it may break.

Who Is At Risk?

Although Osteoporosis is more prevalent in women, especially non-Hispanic and Asian females, both older men and women from all backgrounds are at risk for the disease. According to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation, risk factors include those who have certain types of autoimmune, hematological, gastrointestinal, endocrinal and neurological disorders, as well as various other diseases and conditions.

Additionally, some medicines taken for other conditions may contribute to bone loss, which can increase exponentially with higher doses over more extended periods. Pregnancy, as well as a history of breast or prostate cancer, may also put you at higher risk. Other factors contributing to Osteoporosis include:

• Body Size: Those with slender, thin-boned builds are at greater risk because they have less bone to lose than those who are larger-boned.
• Family History: Research findings indicate that the risk of Osteoporosis and fractures may increase if one of your parents has a history of the disease.
• Hormonal Changes: Women who have low estrogen levels after menopause or those with abnormal menstrual periods due to hormone disorders or extreme levels of physical activity are at greater risk, as are men with conditions that cause low testosterone.
• Diet & Nutrition: Those with diets low in calcium and vitamin D and who diet excessively or have poor protein are at increased risk.
• Lifestyle: Minimal physical activity or prolonged periods of inactivity, as well as chronic heavy drinking and smoking, can contribute to an increased rate of bone loss.

How We Can Help

As a chronic “silent” disease, the rates of progression and the effects can differ based on various factors, and patients often go undiagnosed with Osteoporosis until they experience a fracture. At North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists, we provide individualized treatment plans designed to proactively address bone loss, manage recovery of existing fractures and reduce the risk of future injury.

Fellowship-trained Sports Medicine Physician Dr. Ryan Riggs specializes in evaluating, diagnosing and treating patients with bone health issues, including Osteoporosis, through proper screenings, therapies and education. Dr. Riggs takes a comprehensive approach to each patient, evaluating for possible underlying or undiagnosed health conditions affecting bone health and prescribes a treatment regimen that fits each patient. Several treatment options are available to prevent or slow further bone loss and to help maintain or increase bone density. Through proper diagnosis and treatment of Osteoporosis, many fractures can be avoided altogether. Learn more about Dr. Riggs or book your consultation today using our online appointment request form.

Additional Blog Resources:

https://www.northflboneandjoint.com/posts/healthy-aging-and-bone-health

https://www.northflboneandjoint.com/posts/strong-bones-and-aging