Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to weaken and become more likely to fracture, often without obvious symptoms until an injury occurs. At Southern OBGYN in Valdosta, Georgia, the skilled team offers comprehensive osteoporosis care — from early diagnosis with bone density testing (DEXA scans) to personalized treatment plans that may include lifestyle changes and medication. Their goal is to help protect your bone strength, reduce fracture risk, and preserve your mobility. Call today or book an appointment online to schedule your osteoporosis evaluation.

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a progressive bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone mass, fails to produce enough new bone, or both. Over time, this leads to fragile bones that can break easily — even from minor falls or everyday movements. While osteoporosis can affect anyone, it’s most common in postmenopausal women due to decreased estrogen levels, which play a key role in maintaining bone density.

Risk factors include aging, family history, low body weight, smoking, lack of exercise, and certain medical conditions or medications that affect bone metabolism.

What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because bone loss happens without obvious symptoms. In many cases, the first sign is a fracture. Other possible indicators include:

• Loss of height over time
• Stooped posture or curvature of the spine
• Back pain caused by vertebral fractures
• Bones that break easily

How is osteoporosis diagnosed?

Southern OBGYN uses bone density testing — specifically DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scans — to measure bone mineral density. This painless, noninvasive test compares your bone density to the average for your age and sex, helping your provider assess your fracture risk. Your provider may recommend screening if you’re over 60, have risk factors, or have experienced a low-trauma fracture.

What treatments are available for osteoporosis?

Treatment focuses on slowing bone loss, building bone strength, and preventing fractures. Your personalized care plan may include:

• Lifestyle modifications: Weight-bearing and resistance exercises, a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol.
• Medications: Prescription drugs such as bisphosphonates, hormone therapy, or other bone-building medications to reduce fracture risk and improve bone density.
• Fall prevention: Home safety tips, balance training, and physical therapy to lower your risk of falls.
  

Your provider will monitor your progress through regular follow-up visits and periodic DEXA scans to track changes in bone density over time.

Osteoporosis doesn’t have to lead to loss of independence or mobility. With early detection, targeted treatment — including medication when needed — and ongoing monitoring, you can maintain bone strength and reduce your risk of serious fractures.

Call Southern OBGYN today or schedule your appointment online to start a personalized osteoporosis prevention and treatment plan.