Osteoporosis is a disease that affects your bones. It means that you have bones that are thin and brittle with lots of holes inside them like a sponge. This makes them easy to break. Osteoporosis can lead to broken bones (fractures) in the hip, spine, and wrist. These fractures can be disabling and may make it hard for you to live on your own. Osteoporosis affects millions of older adults. It usually strikes after age 60. It's most common in women, but men can get it too.
At St. Luke's, our goal is to raise awareness and advance the quality of care for osteoporosis and related conditions in our region. We offer diagnosis and treatment for anyone who’s had one or more fragility fractures or is at high risk for sustaining a future fracture. We also serve patients with osteopenia. We'll assist you with:
- Accurate bone mass measurement and interpretation
- Clinical research participation opportunities
- Education materials
- Risk factor modification
- Guidelines for calcium and vitamin D supplementation
- Exercise safety and fall prevention
We will also arrange referral to endocrinology, interventional radiology, physical therapy, or other specialists, as needed.