UNDERSTANDING OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become thin and weak. As bones weaken, they can be at a greater risk for fracture. Osteoporosis occurs in both men and women; however it is most commonly found in women after they reach menopause. One in every two women over the age of 60 has osteoporosis. Nearly one in every two women over the age of 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in her remaining lifetime. There are things you can do throughout life to help keep your bones strong.

To help prevent osteoporosis, you need to become familiar with what factors put you at increased risk. These risk factors include: heredity, lifestyle, decreased hormones, lack of physical activity and inadequate calcium and Vitamin D.

Unfortunately, many of the signs of osteoporosis are not noticeable – until it is to late. Over time, your bones become thinner and weaker. Signs of osteoporosis can include: losing height over the years, certain types of back pain, an upper back that is curved forward (Dowager Hump) or breaking a bone in your hip, spine or wrist.

PREVENTION

Bone loss is something that we all should be concerned about. It doesn’t matter what age you are – you can keep this problem from affecting your life. Build stronger bones by getting plenty of calcium, vitamin D and exercise. Avoid factors that may further weaken bones. Medications, including some steroids, i.e. prednisone and anti-siezure medications can increase bone loss. Ask your provider to review any medications you may be taking. Inactivity, smoking or drinking to much alcohol or to many caffeinated beverages can also weaken your bones. Talk to your provider about prevention and treatment options – learn as much as you can.

Because osteoporosis can be difficult to detect, your doctor may recommend a bone density test - dexascan. Dexascans are simple, safe and painless, most only take a few minutes. This is the most practical way to accurately measure the density of your bones and can be useful in helping the provider diagnose the disease, especially early on. Repeated over time, the dexascan results can assist your provider in tracking your rate of bone loss.

OSTEOPOROSIS MANAGEMENT SERVICES AT
ORTHOPAEDIC ASSOCIATES OF SARATOGA

Osteoporosis is the most prevalent metabolic bone disease in the United States; which unfortunately most often goes undetected until the patient suffers a fracture. Early prevention is key. As more Americans become increasingly aware of bone density as a basic health concern; we want you to know that Orthopaedic Associates of Saratoga offers a full range of osteoporosis management services.

Our office is equipped with a state of the art LUNAR bone densitometer. The dexascan is recommended for women aged 45 years and older and for men 55 and older. A quick convenient exam (less then 10 minutes), the dexascan provides accurate measurement of a patient’s bone mineral density. The computer program then compares the patient’s measurements to a reference population based on age, weight, sex and ethnic background. There is no pain associates with the scan. Bone densitometry involves an extremely small dose of radiation – less than one tenth that of a chest x-ray. The results allow us to diagnosis earlier, treat more effectively and monitor the effects of those treatments. This exam is recommended for women over the age of 45 and men over the age of 55.

After the exam is complete, patients have a follow-up visit with MaryKay Nichols, NP, MS – a nurse practitioner with special training in osteoporosis management. Results are reviewed, patient education is provided and a care plan, if necessary, is developed. The results of the dexascan are sent to the patient’s primary care physician, unless otherwise indicated. Ms. Nichols and Dr. Silver are both certified by the International Society of Clinical Densitometry – an international society dedicated to clinical and educational; aspects of bone density.

In addition to the clinical services available to patients, FREE educational seminars are offered periodically throughout the year. MaryKay Nichols, NP, MS and Anthony DeMatteo, RPT – Saratoga Physical Therapy Associates – conduct an interactive seminar that consist of educational and exercise components. Upcoming seminars are posted on our Patient Education page under “Upcoming Events”, as well as being published in the local newspapers. Please feel free to contact our office for more information regarding these seminars.

Many insurance policies cover dexascan service, however to be absolutely sure, patients are encouraged to call their insurance carrier before scheduling an exam. Appointments may be scheduled Monday – Friday 8:30 am to 4:00 pm by calling our office at 518/587-0845.

This exam is not recommended for pregnant or breast feeding women – please consult your physician.

For more information on osteoporosis prevention/management please click on these related links: www.4women.gov; www.osteo.org; www.nof.org;and www.osteofound.org