Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis affects more than 50 million Americans, while one in three adults over 50 has low bone density. At Rheumatology East, with locations in Germantown and Jackson, Tennessee, board-certified rheumatologist Bradley Postlethwaite, MD, offers treatments that reduce the progression of osteoporosis and lessen your chance of fractures. Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Postlethwaite by calling the office or requesting one online today.

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a common condition causing bones to become brittle and weak (with a higher risk of fractures). Osteoporosis-related broken bones commonly occur in the spine, wrist, and hips. Low bone density develops before osteoporosis; the sooner you seek treatment for this condition, the better, as doing so lessens your risk of fractures and other complications. 

Which symptoms can osteoporosis cause?

Osteoporosis can lead to:

• Stooped posture
• Frequent fractures
• Lower back pain
• Loss of height over time
• Shortness of breath due to compressed spinal discs

However, the early stages of low bone density and osteoporosis often don’t cause any symptoms. 

What increases the risk of osteoporosis?

Risk factors for developing osteoporosis include:

• Being over 50
• Being female
• Low calcium or vitamin D intake
• Poor dietary habits
• Being underweight
• Eating disorders 
• Being postmenopause (in women)
• Family history of osteoporosis
• White or Asian descent
• Having a small frame size
• Smoking or using other tobacco products
• Regular alcohol consumption (more than two drinks daily)
• Lack of exercise
• Endocrine (hormone) imbalances 
• Diabetes
• Gastrointestinal conditions or surgeries
• Blood disorders
• Rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and other autoimmune conditions 
• Kidney or liver diseases
• Cancers
• Some medications

Medications that may contribute to low bone density include diuretics, anticoagulants, hormone therapies for cancer, corticosteroids, seizure medications, proton pump inhibitors, medicines that help prevent the rejection of organ transplants, and others. 

How is osteoporosis diagnosed?

Diagnosing osteoporosis requires a discussion of your medical history, symptoms, lifestyle, medications, and dietary supplements. Dr. Postlethwaite also completes a physical exam and orders bone density testing that uses painless X-rays to assess bone health, allowing him to develop an effective treatment plan if needed.

How is osteoporosis treated?

Treating osteoporosis often consists of solutions that slow bone loss or strengthen existing bone tissues. You may be a candidate for one or more of the following:

• Dietary changes
• Dietary supplements (calcium, vitamin D, etc.)
• Regular exercise
• No smoking
• Limiting or avoiding alcohol
• Preventing falls
• Hormone therapies
• Medications 

The goal of osteoporosis treatment is to prevent bone fractures and ensure the best quality of life possible.

Schedule an osteoporosis evaluation at Rheumatology East by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.