Do I need osteoporosis screening?
Dr. Fishman can tell you when it's the right time to have osteoporosis screening. If you're in any of the following categories, you may need an osteoporosis screening:
- Women 60 and up
- Men 70 and up
- Either sex if you break a bone after the age of 50
- Women starting menopause with osteoporosis risk factors
- Men under 69 with osteoporosis risk factors
In other cases, sudden changes may alert Dr. Fishman that you need an osteoporosis screening. For example, if you "shrink" a significant amount, as in height loss of at least half an inch in one year's time, you may need an immediate osteoporosis screening.
Am I at risk for osteoporosis?
The main osteoporosis risk factors are sex and age. Women are far more prone to osteoporosis than their male counterparts. Osteoporosis risk for both men and women increases significantly around age 65 and then continues to rise over the years.
A family history of osteoporosis increases your risk, particularly if one of your parents fractured a hip. There are other potential risk factors as well, and Dr. Fishman carefully assesses your risk to determine your screening frequency.
How does osteoporosis screening work?
There are several kinds of osteoporosis tests, including:
- Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA)
- Quantitative ultrasound
- Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT)
These screening tests evaluate the bone density in an area like your wrist, hip, or spine. Depending on the results of the screening and your personal risk, you may need blood tests to evaluate markers of bone construction and destruction.
How is osteoporosis treated?
Dr. Fishman generally takes a combination approach that includes improved diet, a weight-bearing exercise program, and medications that enhance bone construction or prevent further bone breakdown.
With the right osteoporosis treatment, you can strengthen your bones and significantly reduce the risk of fractures in the future.
Reach out to Sarah Fishman MD PhD PC through the easy online scheduler or call the office to make your appointment.
