Osteoporosis

Even when you’re otherwise healthy, osteoporosis will weaken your bones without noticeable symptoms until one breaks. Fortunately, the experts at StrongURCare in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, can identify potential signs, evaluate injuries, and provide timely care when osteoporosis-related problems arise. They offer advanced, same-day care when you need urgent support, and personalized preventive care for better peace of mind. Schedule an osteoporosis evaluation by phone or request one online today.

What is osteoporosis?

When your bones are healthy, they’re constantly breaking down and rebuilding without issue. If you develop osteoporosis, however, the rebuilding process declines as your bone density decreases and the structure of bone tissue becomes fragile and porous. Over time, you lose bone strength.

Risk factors include:

• Aging
• Hormonal changes
• Low calcium or vitamin D intake
• Certain medications
• Family history of osteoporosis

It’s most commonly found in older adults, particularly postmenopausal women, but it affects men and younger people as well. 

What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?

In its early stages, osteoporosis typically exhibits no symptoms. You can be completely unaware you have it until a minor fall or even a routine activity causes a fracture.

As the disease progresses, you’ll experience back pain brought on by a broken or collapsed vertebra, loss of height, and a stooped or hunched posture. These are the warning signs that the bones are becoming more fragile, increasing the risk of fractures in the hips, wrists, and spine.

The StrongURCare team promotes early detection to help you avoid severe complications.

How is osteoporosis diagnosed?

The team will do a bone density test, also called a DEXA scan, to assess bone strength and determine your risk of fractures. They can also evaluate your symptoms, assess your fracture risk, and order X-rays if a fracture is suspected. 

StrongURCare offers on-site labs and X-rays, which are especially useful in identifying broken bones or spinal compression fractures that could be related to osteoporosis.

How is osteoporosis managed?

Although osteoporosis can’t be cured, the team helps you reduce your fracture risk and maintain bone health. Your plan can include:

Lifestyle adjustments

Getting enough calcium and vitamin D is essential for maintaining strong bones. Weight-bearing exercises, like walking, can improve your bone density and balance, reducing your risk of falls.

Medication

The team might prescribe medications to slow bone loss or promote bone formation, depending on the severity of your condition. 

Fall prevention strategies

Improving home safety and addressing vision or balance problems are necessary parts of managing osteoporosis.

If you experience a fall or suspect a fracture, go to StrongURCare for prompt evaluation and treatment, which can prevent complications and speed your recovery.

Proper osteoporosis care helps you protect your bones and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle. Schedule an osteoporosis evaluation by calling the office or booking online today.