Dealing with osteoporosis in Austin, Texas? Become a patient at VITAL Rheumatology!

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and fragile, making them more likely to break from minor falls or even simple actions like bending over. This condition often develops slowly over many years without any symptoms until a bone breaks, usually in the hip, spine, or wrist. It is more common in older adults, especially women after menopause, because of the drop in estrogen levels which help keep bones strong.
We diagnose osteoporosis by measuring bone density with a special X-ray test called a DEXA scan. This test is quick and painless, showing how strong or weak the bones are. We also consider factors like age, gender, family history, and lifestyle. Blood and urine tests might be done to check for other conditions that affect bone health.
Treating osteoporosis aims to prevent fractures by slowing bone loss and strengthening bones. This often includes medications, calcium and vitamin D supplements, and regular exercise to keep bones strong. Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and reducing alcohol can also help. Regular visits are important to monitor the condition and adjust treatments as needed.

What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition that makes bones weak and more likely to break. It happens when the body loses too much bone, doesn’t make enough bone, or both. This can lead to fractures, especially in the hip, spine, and wrist.
What causes osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is caused by an imbalance between bone loss and bone formation. Factors like aging, menopause, low calcium or vitamin D, a lack of exercise, smoking, and certain medications can increase the risk. Genetics can also play a role.
What are the treatments for osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is treated with medications that strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures. These include bisphosphonates, hormone-related therapies, and newer drugs like denosumab (Prolia), PTH-analogs, and romosozumab (Evenity). Lifestyle changes, like getting enough calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and avoiding smoking, are also important.
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Osteoporosis is diagnosed using a bone density scan, called a DEXA scan. This test measures bone strength and determines if bones are thinning. Doctors may also look at medical history and risk factors to decide if testing is needed.
Are vitamins and supplements alone enough to treat osteoporosis?
While calcium and vitamin D are important for bone health, they’re usually not enough to treat osteoporosis on their own. Most people with osteoporosis need medications to reduce the risk of fractures. Supplements are often used alongside these medications to support bone health.
Does osteoporosis cause pain?
Osteoporosis itself doesn’t cause pain, but fractures due to weak bones can be very painful. Compression fractures in the spine are common and can cause back pain. Preventing fractures is key to avoiding pain from osteoporosis.
What is the difference between osteoporosis and osteopenia?
Osteopenia is a condition where bones are weaker than normal but not weak enough to be classified as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is more severe and involves a higher risk of fractures. Osteopenia can be a warning sign that bone health needs to be closely monitored but is usually not treated with prescription medication.
How can you prevent osteoporosis?
Preventing osteoporosis involves a healthy lifestyle with regular weight-bearing exercises like walking or weightlifting, a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol. Bone density tests can help identify risks early so treatment can start if needed.
Who is most at risk for osteoporosis?
Women, especially after menopause, are at the highest risk for osteoporosis. Older adults, people with a family history of osteoporosis, smokers, and those with a low-calcium diet are also at higher risk. Certain medications or medical conditions can increase the risk too.
What injections treat osteoporosis?
Injections for osteoporosis include medications like denosumab (Prolia), which is given every six months, and PTH-analogs, which is given daily for a limited time to help build bone. Romosozumab (Evenity) is an additional option, with monthly injections given in the doctor's office for one year. These injections help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures.
Who needs to be screened for osteoporosis?
Women over 65 and men over 70 should be screened for osteoporosis. Younger people with risk factors like a family history of osteoporosis, a history of fractures, long-term steroid use, or certain medical conditions may also need to be screened earlier. A bone density test is the most common way to check for osteoporosis.