Osteoporosis is a condition that many women experience as they grow older. This problem primarily affects the bones, causing them to weaken over time. If you think you may be suffering with osteoporosis, it is important to get the proper medical care, as those who have this condition have a much higher risk of breaking a bone and causing great injury to themselves. At Montecito Concierge Medicine, we can help you manage your osteoporosis in a way that is right for you.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is literally Latin for “porous bones.” It occurs when the small empty spaces inside your bones expand. This compromises the density of the bone, making it weaker, as well as thinner. You may not notice osteoporosis, especially if it is in the early stages, until you break a bone. The bones that are most affected and most likely to break if you fall or suffer a hard impact include the hips, wrist bones, and spine.
What Are the Symptoms?
While there are usually no early stage symptoms of osteoporosis, if you do have symptoms, they may include loss of strength, brittle nails or receding gums. As the disease progresses, you may experience loss of height, back pain, and neck pain, as well as fragile bones.
What Are the Risk Factors for Osteoporosis?
Age is the main precursor of osteoporosis. Once you get into your 30s, your body breaks down bone more quickly than it can grow new bone, with the result being a loss of bone density. Menopause, which usually occurs in women between the ages of 45-55 on average, can also accelerate bone loss. A poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, and smoking can all contribute to the condition.
What Are Our Treatment Options?
At Montecito Concierge Medicine, we provide Bone Score™ testing, a new FDA-cleared test to evaluate bone health. Once we determine the health of your bones, we can develop a treatment program, which will usually include getting more exercise, changing your diet, in particular adding more calcium and Vitamin D, and bisphosphonates, which are drugs that prevent loss of bone density.
Osteoporosis Management in Santa Barbara, CA
By becoming a Montecito Concierge Medicine member, you enjoy the peace of mind knowing that our highly talented staff will always be there to help you manage you and slow the progression of bone loss. To find out more, schedule a simple 15-minute consultation with our Dr. Alan J. Viglione by calling (805) 892-6500 or submitting an appointment request by filling out the form below.