Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis can weaken your bones over time and raise your risk of fractures. Because bone loss usually happens without early symptoms, many people do not know they have osteoporosis until they break a bone.

At Diabetes and Glandular Disease Clinic, we provide osteoporosis diagnosis and treatment in San Antonio. Our team evaluates how hormone levels, vitamin D, calcium, and other metabolic factors may be affecting your bone health.

Osteoporosis can often be detected before a fracture happens, and treatment can help strengthen your bones and lower your risk of future breaks.

Osteoporosis is a condition that makes bones thinner and weaker over time. As bones lose strength, they can break more easily, sometimes after a minor fall.

Osteoporosis usually develops without early symptoms. Many people don’t know they have it until they experience a fracture.

Osteoporosis is closely linked to hormones and metabolism. Your bones rely on several systems to stay strong, including:

• Estrogen and testosterone
• Calcium and vitamin D levels
• Thyroid function
• Nutrition
• Physical activity

When these systems are out of balance, bone loss can happen more quickly.

Your bones are constantly renewing themselves.

• Osteoclasts remove old bone.
• Osteoblasts build new bone.

When these processes stay balanced, bones remain strong.

As you age, or when hormone and metabolic changes occur, bone breakdown can happen faster than bone formation. Over time, bones become thinner and more fragile.

Osteoporosis usually develops because of several contributing factors. Common risk factors include:

• Aging, especially after menopause
• Family history of osteoporosis or fractures
• Low body weight
• Limited weight-bearing exercise
• Low calcium or vitamin D intake
• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol use
• Long-term corticosteroid use
• Thyroid disorders
• Conditions that affect nutrient absorption

Although osteoporosis is more common in women, men can develop it as well.

Osteoporosis often doesn’t cause symptoms at first. As bone loss progresses, you may notice:

• A fracture that happens more easily than expected
• Loss of height
• A stooped posture
• Ongoing back pain

Because symptoms may not appear until bones are already weak, screening is important.

The main test for osteoporosis is a bone density scan, also called a DEXA scan. This test measures bone density in the hip and spine.

Results are reported as a T-score:

• -1.0 or higher: Normal bone density
• Between -1.0 and -2.5: Osteopenia (low bone mass)
• -2.5 or lower: Osteoporosis

Your provider may also check vitamin D, calcium, thyroid function, and other factors that affect bone health.

Treatment is designed to strengthen bones and lower your risk of fractures.

Lifestyle Changes for Osteoporosis

Daily habits play an important role in protecting your bones.

• Weight-bearing and resistance exercise
• Adequate calcium intake
• Vitamin D supplementation when needed
• Avoiding smoking
• Limiting alcohol

Osteoporosis Medications

If fracture risk is higher, medication may be recommended.

Common options include:

• Bisphosphonates, which slow bone loss
• Bone-building medications, which help form new bone

Monitoring and Fall Prevention

Preventing falls is just as important as improving bone density. Treatment may also include repeat bone density scans, lab monitoring, and adjustments to your care plan over time.

Osteoporosis can weaken your bones for years before it causes a fracture. Finding it early can lower your risk of broken bones and help you stay active.

At Diabetes and Glandular Disease Clinic, we provide osteoporosis diagnosis and treatment in San Antonio. If you’re concerned about bone loss or fracture risk, schedule an appointment to get a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

1. Does Osteoporosis Always Lead to Fractures?

No. Osteoporosis increases your risk of fractures, but it doesn’t mean you’ll definitely break a bone. Treatment and lifestyle changes can help lower that risk.

2. Can Osteoporosis Be Reversed?

Bone density can improve in some cases, especially with treatment. More often, the goal is to slow or stop further bone loss and reduce the chance of fractures.

3. Should I Be Screened for Osteoporosis Even If I Feel Fine?

Yes. Osteoporosis often develops without symptoms. A bone density test can detect bone loss early, before a fracture occurs.

4. What Kind of Doctor Treats Osteoporosis?

Endocrinologists treat osteoporosis because hormones, vitamin D, calcium, and thyroid function all affect bone strength.