The following describes methods for treating osteoporosis. For specific information regarding your health and treatment options, please contact your Hurley physician or medical professional.

A disease of the bones

Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones in which the bone mineral density (BMD) is reduced which leads to an increased risk of fracture. At Hurley Medical Center, we want to help you avoid developing osteoporosis. If you already have osteoporosis, our board certified specialists can try to prevent it from getting worse. 

What are the three types of osteporosis?

Osteoporosis may be classified as:

• Primary type 1 (or postmenopausal osteoporosis) - most common in women after menopause  
• Primary type 2 (or senile osteoporosis) - occurs after age 75 and is seen in both females and males (in women twice as often as in men). 
• Secondary - may occur at any age and affects men and women equally. This form of osteoporosis results from chronic medical problems or disease, or prolonged use of certain medications.

How can I reduce my chances of developing osteoporosis?

Your likelihood of developing osteoporosis can be reduced with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and preventing falls. It can also be reduced by medication including calcium, vitamin D, bisphosphonates and several others.

Is there a test to determine if I have osteoporosis?

Bone densitometry, also called bone density scanning or DXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry), is a type of x-ray used to measure bone loss. The procedure is performed in Hurley Medical Center’s nuclear medicine department, is painless and non-invasive, and involves minimal radiation exposure. Bone densitometry is most often performed on the lower spine and hips. In children and some adults, the whole body is sometimes scanned. Secondary devices that use x-ray or ultrasound can also be used to screen for low bone mass. Bone mineral density (or BMD) is used as an indicator of osteoporosis and fracture risk. Bone density measurements are used to screen women for osteoporosis risk and to identify those who might benefit from treatments to improve bone strength.