Osteoporosis
Our osteoporosis specialists in New York are here for you. Our team of endocrine doctors near you are dedicated to supporting your success and ensuring that you regain your metabolic health and overall wellness.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disorder characterized by decreased bone mass and deterioration of bone microarchitecture, resulting in increased bone fragility and susceptibility to fractures. It is diagnosed through bone mineral density (BMD) measurement, typically using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). A T-score of -2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis. This condition primarily affects trabecular bone, commonly involving sites such as the vertebrae, hips, and wrists. Osteoporosis leads to a significant reduction in bone strength and structural integrity, making bones more prone to fractures even with minimal trauma.
What Are the Causes of Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is caused by an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation, leading to reduced bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration. Primary osteoporosis is typically related to aging and hormonal changes, particularly decreased estrogen levels in postmenopausal women and reduced testosterone in men. Secondary osteoporosis arises from various medical conditions and lifestyle factors. Endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, and Cushing's syndrome can accelerate bone loss. Chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, and gastrointestinal disorders that impair nutrient absorption, including celiac disease and Crohn's disease, also contribute to osteoporosis. Prolonged use of medications such as glucocorticoids, anticonvulsants, and proton pump inhibitors further exacerbates bone loss. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake, contribute to poor bone health. Lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and low body mass index (BMI) are significant contributors. Genetic predisposition and family history also play crucial roles in the development of osteoporosis.
What Are the Treatments and Therapies for Osteoporosis?
Treatment for osteoporosis aims to prevent fractures and maintain bone mass. First-line pharmacologic therapies include bisphosphonates, such as alendronate, risedronate, and zoledronic acid, which inhibit bone resorption. Certain monoclonal antibodes also reduce bone resorption by inhibiting RANKL. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) mimic estrogen's protective effects on bone. Parathyroid hormone analogs, such as teriparatide, stimulate bone formation and are used in severe cases.
Non-pharmacologic interventions include ensuring adequate dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D, engaging in weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises, and implementing fall prevention strategies. Monitoring bone mineral density (BMD) with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) guides treatment decisions. Lifestyle modifications, including smoking cessation and limiting alcohol intake, are essential. Regular follow-up is necessary to assess treatment efficacy, adherence, and any potential side effects, adjusting therapy as needed.
How Can Well by Messer Help You with Osteoporosis?
At Well by Messer, we manage our patients with osteoporosis similarly to how we manage those with osteopenia. The main difference here is the medical management. Given the degree of bone mass loss with osteoporosis, it is usually necessary to combine certain medications with vitamin D and calcium. There are several medical therapies to treat osteoporosis and our endocrinologists have a lot of experience with the medications. Each patient is treated individually based on their medical history. In conjunction with medical management, we strongly encourage patients to work with our personal trainer on strengthening.
Meet the Well by Messer (WBM) Team
Under the leadership of top endocrinologist in New York, Dr. Caroline Messer, our caring and talented team of board-certified endocrinologists, psychologists, nutritionists, and personal trainers will be dedicated to supporting your success and regaining your metabolic health at our metabolic centers in Manhattan.
Patient Reviews
