Bone Health

Bone Health Matters at Orthopedic Institute

Strong bones are the foundation for an active, independent life. They protect vital organs, support muscles and joints, and allow the body to move with stability and balance. At Orthopedic Institute, bone health is a core focus. Our team provides evaluation, treatment, and preventive strategies to help patients protect bone strength, reduce fracture risk, and live healthier lives at every age.

Why Bone Health Matters

Bone health affects everyone, not just older adults. Bone is living tissue that constantly breaks down and rebuilds in a process called remodeling. This cycle keeps bones strong and flexible. Up until around age 30, the body builds bone faster than it breaks it down. By midlife, the balance shifts and bone loss gradually increases.

When bone health declines, the risk of fractures rises. Fractures can change daily life by limiting mobility, reducing independence, and leading to long-term health complications. Protecting bone health throughout life is key to preventing these outcomes.

What Influences Bone Strength

Many influences determine bone strength. Some factors cannot be controlled, while others can be improved through lifestyle changes.

• Age – bone density decreases naturally over time
• Gender – women face higher risk after menopause due to estrogen loss
• Genetics – family history of fractures or osteoporosis increases risk
• Nutrition – diets low in calcium, vitamin D, and protein weaken bones
• Lifestyle – smoking, excess alcohol, and inactivity reduce bone density
• Medical conditions – rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, asthma, celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disease contribute to bone loss
• Medications – long-term steroid use and certain treatments weaken bone

How Bone Health Is Evaluated

Maintaining strong bones begins with an accurate assessment. At Orthopedic Institute, specialists use multiple tools to evaluate bone health:
Bone density testing (DEXA scan) – a painless X-ray test that measures bone strength at the spine, hip, femur, and radius

• Lab tests – check calcium, vitamin D, and hormone levels that impact bone health
• Medical history and risk review – identify personal factors that influence bone loss
• Fracture risk scores – estimate likelihood of future fractures

Screening is especially important for women aged 65+, men aged 70+, and adults over 50 with a history of fractures. Medicare covers bone density testing for women aged 65+ and men aged 70+.

Lifestyle and Prevention for Bone Health

Bone health care starts long before any diagnosis. Prevention and maintenance strategies include:

• Balanced nutrition – calcium- and vitamin D–rich foods, along with sufficient protein
• Exercise – weight-bearing activity (walking, dancing, stair climbing) and resistance training to build strength and stability
• Fall prevention – balance training, home modifications, safe footwear, and review of medications that may cause dizziness
• Healthy habits – avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and staying active

Understanding Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is one of the most common bone health conditions. It occurs when bones lose too much density and become fragile, increasing the risk of fractures. Often called a “silent disease,” osteoporosis may not be diagnosed until a fracture happens.

Risk factors for osteoporosis include age, menopause, family history, sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, and certain medical conditions. Fragility fractures—breaks from simple ground-level falls—are common warning signs.

Diagnosis typically involves a DEXA scan and a review of health history. Treatment focuses on reducing fracture risk through:

• Calcium and vitamin D supplementation
• Weight-bearing exercise
• Balance training and fall prevention
• Prescription medications that slow bone breakdown or build bone

At Orthopedic Institute, osteoporosis care is tailored to each patient’s needs, helping to maintain independence and prevent fractures.

Fall Prevention and Exercise

Falls are the leading cause of fractures related to weak bones. More than 95% of hip fractures result from a fall. Fall prevention is a cornerstone of bone health care.

Our specialists emphasize:

• Balance training – tai chi, yoga, and targeted exercises
• Strength building – resistance training to prevent frailty
• Home safety – removing tripping hazards, adding grab bars, using non-slip mats and proper lighting

Regular movement and safe exercise programs also reduce sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass that contributes to falls.

Treatment Options for Bone Health

Bone health does not end after treatment. Recovery from fractures or bone loss requires long-term management. At Orthopedic Institute, care may include:

• Guided physical therapy for safe movement
• Nutrition counseling to support bone strength
• Ongoing bone density testing to track changes
• Medication management to ensure effectiveness
• Education on safe daily habits to reduce fracture risk

Living Strong With Healthy Bones

The ultimate goal of bone health care is independence, mobility, and quality of life. With early evaluation, preventive strategies, and expert treatment, patients can reduce their risk of fractures and continue living active, confident lives.

At Orthopedic Institute, our team is dedicated to helping every patient build and maintain stronger bones—because strong bones are the foundation for a strong life.